China’s strategic utilization of economic relations and a favorable trade surplus as instruments to bolster its potential military power status in Asia has significant implications for neighboring India. As China emerges as a dominant economic force, its financial influence in the region becomes a dual-edged sword, intertwining economic cooperation with geopolitical ambitions. The positive trade surplus allows China to invest heavily in military modernization, enhancing its capabilities and establishing a formidable presence. For India, this raises concerns about regional security and the balance of power. The potential militarization of China, fueled by economic strength, may lead to shifts in the geopolitical landscape, impacting India’s strategic interests. As neighbors, India must navigate the delicate balance between economic cooperation and safeguarding its national security interests, necessitating a nuanced and vigilant approach to the evolving dynamics in the Asia-Pacific region.
Tag: International Relation.
Decoding the Question:
- In the Introduction, briefly write about the emerging status of China in Asia.
- In Body,
- Discuss how it is using its economic relations and positive trade surplus as tools to develop potential military power.
- Write its impact on India.
- In Conclusion, mention the overall status of both countries and suggest a way forward for India.
Answer:
The rise of China into a military-industrial powerhouse has a multi-dimensional impact on other states of Asia. It has nearly double-digit growth and trade surplus under the export-led growth model. China is using this economic might to develop strategic relations with countries through various initiatives.
China’s Use of Economic Relations for Military Power:
- China to build new institutions like the AIIB and Silk Road Fund, to boost connectivity between China and the neighboring countries and beyond. BRI is a public good but in reality, countries find themselves in debt distress.
- In West Asia, Arabs have fully supported its BRI projects. China is considered a reliable partner in the region.
- China is also building and taking control of ports in different countries in the Indian Ocean. (string of pearls) For example: Hambantota Port in Sri Lanka, etc.
- In the Russia-India-China (RIC) trilateral, BRICS, AIIB, etc. there is a strong dominance of China.
Impact on India due to the Rise of China:
- Border Disputes and Territorial Claims: China’s assertiveness in territorial disputes, such as the Doklam standoff with India and its claims in the South China Sea, has raised concerns. It uses economic and military strength to assert its territorial claims, which can lead to tensions and even conflicts.
- Strategic Encirclement: China’s strategic infrastructure development in neighboring countries, such as the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), has raised concerns about encirclement. These projects often have military implications, potentially impacting India’s security.
- Economic Leverage: China’s economic investments in neighboring countries can create economic dependencies. If these countries become heavily reliant on China, it can influence their foreign policy decisions, potentially affecting India’s regional influence.
- Maritime Expansion: China’s expanding naval presence in the Indian Ocean, including the construction of military facilities in countries like Djibouti, can be viewed as an attempt to challenge India’s maritime dominance in the region.
- Trade Relations: While India has a significant trade relationship with China, the trade surplus in favor of China is a concern. It can lead to economic vulnerabilities and imbalances in bilateral relations.
- Regional Influence: China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) has expanded its influence in South Asia, including countries like Sri Lanka, Nepal, and Bangladesh. This influence can potentially limit India’s strategic space in its neighborhood.
- Military Modernization: China’s economic strength has enabled significant military modernization efforts, including the development of advanced weaponry and technologies. This can impact the military balance in the region.
- Geostrategic Competition: India and China share a complex relationship with elements of cooperation and competition. China’s military ambitions and strategic moves necessitate that India develop its capabilities to ensure its security interests.
China’s growing involvement in the region through the economic and military might is creating strong security, economic, and geopolitical concerns for India. India should maintain a working relationship with China without being confrontational, strengthen its foreign policy & soft power, and continue its cooperation in counter groupings like Quad. It will strengthen India’s capability and help in developing instruments to deal with China.
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