India and China Relations
In the relations between India and China, now the warmth is slowly returning. This is not just a diplomacy of appearance, there are many ground reasons behind it. After the clash of the Galwan Valley, the relations between the two countries had become very cold, but now there are signs of friendship from India. The biggest reason for this is the direct benefit, especially on the trade and technology front.
India has started giving tourist visas again to Chinese citizens from July 24. That is, if any Chinese citizen wants to come to India, he can apply for a visa. This means clearly – India wants to give pace to both tourism and business again.
The truth is that India gets essential machines, technology and cheap electronic items from China. China is a big trading partner of India and the economy of both countries depends on each other in many cases. In such a situation, India understands well that distance from China can be harmful and to some extent to increase closely.
Growing distance from America?
Former US President Donald Trump’s recent foreign policy, especially the importance to Pakistan, is knocking India. Lunch at the White House with Pakistan’s Army Chief has made India think whether America is still a reliable strategic companion? Its effect is clearly visible. India is now not only relying on a polar foreign policy, but is also thinking towards improving relations with a powerful neighbor like China. If America’s attitude remains strict or uncertain, better business relations with China can become a strong option for India.
What will be the benefits of improving relations with China?
- Business boom: There is India’s dependence on electronics, raw materials and machines imported from China. When the relationship is better, the supply of these goods will be cheap and easy. This will reduce the cost of Indian companies.
- New investment opportunities: NITI Aayog has suggested that Chinese companies can buy up to 24% stake in Indian companies without government approval. This can speed up the stalled deals and increase investment.
- Limited competition, more cooperation: After incidents like Galwan, the two countries showed strictness, but now it is understood that converting mutual competition into struggle is not in anyone’s interest. When tension on the border decreases, the pressure on the defense budget will be reduced and the attention of the country will be focused on development.
- Cooperation in tourism and education: The start of tourist visa will increase the movement between the citizens of the two countries. This will not only benefit tourism, but will also increase cooperation in universities and research projects of both countries.
Friendship with China is not a weakness, is prudent
According to defense experts, interaction and cooperation with China is not a compulsion of India, but strategic understanding. Retired Major General G.D. Bakshi says that if China spoils relations with India, then it will have to face pressure on America and India -two fronts. At the same time, maintaining trade and limited cooperation with China for India can be a way to balance the dependence on America in the future. India is no longer afraid of China’s ‘intimidation strategy’, but gives thoughtful answers.
India is adopting multilateral strategy
India is now moving towards a new foreign policy in which it is necessary to maintain balance with every country. Stay a strong relationship with America, but it would not be prudent to remove a neighbor like China. Russia is also trying to bring India and China closer, so that the balance of strength in Asia is maintained. This time is decisive for India, where it has to take his own decisions on the global platform and walk with what he gives. There is some risk in friendship with China, but there is also an advantage and at the moment India is trying to see the same benefit.