– by Sombir Kaushik
India’s economy is rapidly growing. Safeguarding this growing economy is a significant challenge. For this, every country establishes security along its borders and builds diplomatic relationships on global platforms. However, the biggest challenge facing development at this time is expansionism. If a neighboring country like China possesses expansionist tendencies, it becomes a major concern. India’s increasing global influence poses a significant challenge to China’s expansionist mindset. It is not only a challenge for India alone, but also to curb China’s influence in neighboring countries.
Examining the growing influence of China in India’s neighboring countries reveals that Pakistan is entirely under China’s influence. Sri Lanka also owes a significant debt to China, and Bangladesh is experiencing increased Chinese investments. Nepal’s growing relationship with China is evident. Meanwhile, news is emerging from another neighboring country, and this country holds great importance for India’s security.
Bhutan’s increasing interest in China could prove to be a significant threat to India. Recently, Bhutan’s King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck visited India for eight days (from November 3 to 10). The purpose of this visit was to reduce India’s concerns related to possible border agreements between Bhutan and China. Just last month, Bhutan’s Foreign Minister Tandi Dorji visited China, attracting global attention for two reasons: The first reason is that both countries are working towards resolving a decades-old border dispute. During this visit, both countries reached a cooperation agreement, outlining the responsibilities of the Joint Technical Team (JTT) and its operations. The second reason is that this visit clarified that the relations between the two countries are continually improving. This is the reason why it is a significant move by China against India.
China’s actions are evident, and its underlying motive is clear. The concern here is why India has remained silent on this issue. However, if we view it from a diplomatic perspective, it can be understood that India has carefully maintained silence on this entire episode. It is being interpreted as an indication that India understands Bhutan’s situation and does not consider the current events against its interests.
Even though Bhutan remains vigilant about Indian interests, new challenges are likely to emerge for India in the current circumstances. Considering sensitive disputed issues like Doklam, India will naturally remain cautious about China’s ability to change the situation in the border region. Another aspect is that after establishing diplomatic relations with China, Bhutan has become part of those Asian countries where China and India continue to compete for influence. Note that China has already indicated that after the establishment of diplomatic relations with Bhutan, possibilities of cooperation will be explored in economic, cultural, and other areas.
However, it should be noted that this is not the first time this has happened. Talks between China and Bhutan have been ongoing for a long time. Both countries signed an MOU in 1988, in 1998, a final agreement was reached. By 2016, they had conducted 24 rounds of talks.
