S Jaishankar has highlighted India’s ‘Special China problem,’ one that is deeply rooted in the unresolved border disputes
India-China relations have long been fraught with challenges, but recent remarks by India's External Affairs Minister (EAM) S Jaishankar have brought the depth of these issues into sharper focus. Jaishankar has said that India has a "special China problem," which he emphasized is distinct from the more general concerns that the rest of the world, including Europe and the United States, has with China. Jaishankar's comments come at a time when countries globally are grappling with what he termed the "general China problem." This problem, characterised by economic and national security debates, is not unique to India. Across Europe and the United States, policymakers are increasingly preoccupied with China's growing influence and the challenges it poses. From trade imbalances to concerns about Chinese technology in critical infrastructure, these issues have sparked widespread scrutiny of China's global role. However, India's situation is further complicated by its unique geopolitical and economic circumstances. India shares a long and contested border with China, which has been the site of several military standoffs over the years, the most recent and severe of which began in May 2020 in eastern Ladakh.
India's “special China problem” goes beyond the broader concerns of the international community. It is rooted in the unresolved border dispute between the two nations, which has led to a prolonged military standoff along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) in eastern Ladakh. The ongoing border tensions have necessitated the deployment of approximately 50,000-60,000 troops by both sides, creating a volatile situation that has yet to see a lasting resolution. Diplomatic efforts to resolve these issues continue, with the 31st meeting of the Working Mechanism for Consultation & Coordination on India-China Border Affairs (WMCC) taking place on August 29 in Beijing. However what is interesting is that despite tensions and border skirmishes India China trade has flourished and many importer in India make regular rounds to source stuff from China to sell in the Indian market. But Jaishankar's remark could mean a shift in the official policy vis a vis China. If Govt changes its policy, Chinese goods and investments may have to face more barriers dissuading the Chinese investors. Jaishankar also highlighted the economic dimensions of India's relationship with China, pointing out that the trade deficit and the nature of Chinese investments are areas of significant concern. Indeed security is non negotiable and must be implemented in letter and spirit. But at the same time the commerce should not be thought of as an impediment. If one thing that can improve the relations between two countries, it is trade. However, India could restrict Chinese investment in security-sensitive areas such as telecommunications and digital cyber space.
