Shashi Tharoor Calls for Predictable India-China Relations Amid ITBP Remarks
Congress MP Shashi Tharoor emphasizes the need for stable ties with China, citing concerns over border tensions and trade dependencies.
Tharoor highlights India's frustrations with China's border behavior and support for Pakistan.
He stresses the imbalance in trade dependency, with India relying more on China than vice versa.
The MP calls for predictable relations to prevent trade from being used as a weapon.
In a recent address at the NDTV World Summit, Congress MP Shashi Tharoor discussed the growing tensions between India and China, particularly in light of remarks made by ITBP chief Shatrujeet Kapur regarding the military's handling of border issues in Arunachal Pradesh. Tharoor expressed deep concerns about China's actions along the border, stating that India's frustrations with its neighbor are well-founded due to ongoing territorial disputes and China's support for Pakistan during last year's conflict.
Tharoor elaborated on the implications of China's military support for Pakistan, noting that it included not only weapons but also real-time intelligence during the conflict. He described these actions as hostile and indicative of a broader trend of Chinese aggression that undermines the previously established understanding of a peaceful border. The MP emphasized that incidents like Galwan are not isolated, raising questions about China's intentions in the region.
The Congress leader pointed out the significant trade imbalance between India and China, highlighting that India's dependence on Chinese imports is far greater than the reverse. He remarked that this lack of trust complicates the interdependence of the two nations, as India cannot rely on China to act in its best interests. Tharoor's comments reflect a growing concern among Indian policymakers regarding the strategic implications of such dependencies.
Tharoor painted a concerning picture of India's reliance on Chinese exports, citing previous instances where China has restricted critical supplies, such as rare earth materials and essential machinery. He warned that such dependencies could be weaponized against India, jeopardizing national interests and economic stability.
Concluding his remarks, Tharoor called for a shift towards more predictable and stable relations with China, emphasizing the need for trade agreements that do not leave India vulnerable to sudden disruptions. He advocated for a diplomatic approach that prioritizes mutual respect and trust, aiming to foster a more balanced and secure relationship between the two countries.
