Recently, the Chinese government unveiled the “2023 edition of the standard map of China,” reigniting territorial disputes by asserting its claims over regions that have been a long-standing point of contention with India. Accompanying the National Mapping Awareness Publicity Week, the renewed declarations carry significant political connotations.
China’s Territorial Assertions on the New Map
The recently released 2023 edition featured a host of controversial declarations. It incorporated parts of Arunachal Pradesh and the Aksai Chin Region as part of its territory. The contentious Nine-Dash Line, covering the entire South China Sea, was depicted, reinforcing Beijing’s claims over this strategic maritime region. The map additionally featured the tenth dash line, further emphasizing Beijing’s assertions over Taiwan island. Moreover, Chinese authorities have taken an extra step towards asserting their claim by renaming places in Arunachal Pradesh.
Point of Contention between India and China
The India-China border dispute traces its origins to the indistinct demarcations along their shared 3,488 kilometers border. They mainly dispute over Aksai Chin, administered by China but considered by India as part of Ladakh, and Arunachal Pradesh, which China refers to as “South Tibet”, but is governed by India as a northeastern state.
Military Standoffs
The border dispute has resulted in various military conflicts, with recent episodes of conflict flaring up in Galwan Valley, Ladakh in 2020, and Tawang, Arunachal Pradesh in 2022. Serious military confrontations between the two nations have seen an increase since 2013.
Border Dispute Settlement Mechanisms
Over the years, several agreements have been made to resolve the ongoing border disputes. From the Shimla Agreement in 1914 to Panchsheel Agreement of 1954, and more recent treaties like the Border Defence Co-operation Agreement of 2013.
Implications of China’s New Map on India
By embedding disputed territories in its official map, China has escalated the border dispute with India. This move has the potential to cause diplomatic tensions between the two nations, negatively influence India-China relations, and upset the broader regional balance of power.
India’s Response to China’s Territorial Claims
To combat China’s renewed territorial assertions, India should continue engaging in diplomatic dialogues and emphasize peaceful resolution and adherence to bilateral agreements. Additionally, India should strengthen existing border infrastructure, enhance its military preparedness, diversify its economic ties, and form alliances with like-minded regional and global partners. Moreover, it is crucial that India raise the border issue at international forums to push for a peaceful resolution based on international norms and principles.
In conclusion, China’s release of the 2023 edition of its standard map reflects its ongoing assertiveness over its territorial claims and geopolitical interests under President Xi Jinping’s leadership. This development sets the stage for escalated disputes and offers a glimpse into China’s strategy of bolstering its geopolitical influence in the region.
