The recent Parliamentary discourse regarding the foreign policy of India has stirred discussions about the influences shaping the country’s foreign relationships. Widespread criticism suggests that the current policies are pushing Pakistan and China into a closer alliance, a stance to which the External Affairs Minister responded by emphasizing the historical rapport between Pakistan and China.
Historical Background of Pakistan-China Relationship
Tracing the relationship between Pakistan and China back to their roots reveals a complex interaction of political alliances and international conflicts. Initially, Pakistan, being a member of SEATO and CENTO, appeared as an ally of the non-Soviet bloc, while China under Mao Zedong stood at the opposite end. However, the India-China war of 1962 changed the dynamics significantly.
Impact of Wars on Pakistan-China Relations
The 1962 war led Pakistan to develop closer ties with China, marked by Pakistan ceding the Shaksgam Valley to China in a 1963 boundary agreement. This not only laid the foundation for the Karakoram Highway but also facilitated China diplomatically during the 1965 India-Pakistan war.
Nuclear Co-operation: Reinforcing the Bond
The alliance of China and Pakistan further solidified in the 1970s and ‘80s, with nuclear cooperation emerging as a key pillar, triggered by India’s nuclear test in 1974. This partnership paved the way for significant advancements in Pakistan’s nuclear energy technology, culminating in the development of the Qinshan-1 nuclear power plant in 1991.
Accounting for the History of India-China Ties
India-China relations underwent a sea change in 1988 with Rajiv Gandhi’s visit to China. From here onwards, China started viewing its relationship with India mainly from an economic perspective. This period also saw China adopting a cautious approach in its dealings with India and Pakistan.
The Present Status of India-China-Pakistan Triangle
The growing closeness between the US and India, sparked by the nuclear deal in 2005-06, has left China and Pakistan apprehensive. China’s Belt and Road Initiative, manifested in the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor, has further fueled tensions by passing through disputed territory claimed by India.
China and Pakistan Draw Closer Post Article 370 Abrogation
India’s move in August 2019 to abrogate Article 370 and revoke Jammu and Kashmir’s special status has drawn China and Pakistan even closer. As of 2020, the two nations have signed a defense pact to bolster their military cooperation.
The Implications of China-Pakistan Closeness For India
The convergence between China and Pakistan raises potential threats for India, including the prospect of a ‘two-front’ war. Additionally, it allows China to ‘recover’ territories it claims in India and to assert influence over Kashmir and surrounding regions.
Strategizing the Way Forward
In handling the complex geopolitical landscape, India can strategize by improving relations with its neighbors and strengthening ties with key powers in West Asia. Maintaining a good relationship with Russia could prove beneficial for India, while political outreach to aggrieved citizens in Kashmir could also yield significant results. Lastly, reinforcing the Indo-Pacific strategy can serve as a bulwark against potential adversaries.
Source: IE
