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Andrew Leung, an independent China strategist, argues that India and China should prioritize trade and cooperation to move beyond long-standing border disputes. He suggests that normalizing relations between the two Asian giants is essential for global economic stability, especially given the current geopolitical landscape. Leung emphasizes that ongoing border tensions are counterproductive and have strained relations in recent years. He believes that focusing on mutual benefits and cooperation is a more pragmatic approach. Leung highlights areas such as climate change, green economies, and development strategies for the Global South as potential areas for collaboration. He contends that such cooperation could contribute to a stable and interconnected world order. The shifting perception of the United States' global role also plays a significant part in these dynamics. Leung asserts that many countries no longer view the US as a reliable ally due to its increasingly protectionist policies. He observes that the world order is being reshaped, and the United States' antagonism toward its allies is contributing to this shift. With the rise of the Global South, the focus is shifting toward where the markets are. Leung commends Prime Minister Narendra Modi's recent outreach to China as a wise move amid the ongoing global realignment. He believes that Modi is seeking pragmatic engagement with China rather than forming rigid blocs. Leung emphasizes the economic complementarity between China and India, noting that China remains a major global market deeply embedded in the global supply chain, while India has much to offer China. He believes stronger India-China ties could counterbalance the "America First" policies of the US. Leung concludes that it makes geopolitical and economic sense for India and China to work together, focusing on mutual benefits rather than divisions that are becoming obsolete. Recent statements and meetings between leaders of both countries signal a potential improvement in relations.
The article underscores the growing sentiment that India and China's economic partnership could be a key factor in shaping the future global order. As the United States pivots inward with its protectionist policies, the article suggests a power vacuum is emerging, one that could potentially be filled by a stronger alliance between the world's two most populous nations. Leung's analysis focuses heavily on the economic opportunities present within a more cooperative India-China relationship. He highlights China's immense market size and its integral role in the global supply chain as valuable assets for India. Simultaneously, he points out India's potential as a significant trading partner for China, offering a diverse range of goods and services. This mutually beneficial economic relationship, Leung argues, could not only boost the economies of both nations but also serve as a counterbalance to the economic dominance of the United States. The article further explores the changing geopolitical landscape, emphasizing the increasing skepticism towards the United States' role as a reliable global ally. This disillusionment, fueled by the US's protectionist trade policies and strained relationships with traditional allies, has led many nations to reconsider their alliances and seek new partnerships. In this context, Leung sees a window of opportunity for India and China to forge a stronger relationship based on mutual economic interests and a shared desire for a more multipolar world. The article posits that this shift in global dynamics is creating an environment conducive to greater cooperation between India and China, despite their historical differences and ongoing border disputes.
The core argument of the article hinges on the idea that economic imperatives should take precedence over historical grievances in the relationship between India and China. Leung proposes that prioritizing trade and cooperation would allow both nations to reap significant economic benefits and contribute to global stability. The focus on economic collaboration is seen as a pragmatic approach, recognizing the mutual dependence and the potential for synergy between the two economies. The article also suggests that the changing global order, characterized by the rise of the Global South and the waning influence of the United States, provides an opportune moment for India and China to redefine their relationship. The perception that the US is becoming less reliable as a global partner is a crucial element in this analysis. The article implies that India and China should take advantage of this situation to forge a new alliance based on shared interests and a common vision for a more balanced global order. The article emphasizes the importance of dialogue and diplomatic engagement between India and China. The recent statements by Prime Minister Modi and the positive response from Beijing are viewed as encouraging signs of a potential thaw in relations. The article concludes by highlighting the potential for India and China to play a more prominent role in shaping the global economy and promoting a more multipolar world order. By focusing on mutual benefits and setting aside their differences, the two nations could unlock significant economic opportunities and contribute to greater global stability and cooperation. Leung's analysis presents a compelling case for a new paradigm in India-China relations, one that prioritizes economic cooperation and recognizes the changing dynamics of the global landscape.
Source: India and China should focus on trade and move beyond border disputes: Andrew Leung