By Vishnu Makhijani New Delhi : , Nov 23, 2013 – The Sino-Indian border dispute is likely to continue for some time.Beijing appears “to have lost it” while nationalism and authoritarianism in China “make for an unhealthy cocktail” that raises tensions throughout the region.
Nirupama Rao is a former Indian Foreign secretary who served as an ambassador in Beijing and Washington.
The Opposition must also be on the same page about China’s dealings and the government must formulate a communication strategy that is balanced.
However, the media must take responsibility for the matter.
I don’t see any bright futures.
Rao said that the Chinese position on the border question has become more rigid, inflexible, and assertive over recent years.She spoke to IANS during an interview about her book, “The Fractured Himalaya: India, Tibet, China 1949-1962” (Penguin).
They seem to have lost their way.There are more transgressions in border areas along the Line of Actual Control.This situation must be addressed by taking firm measures to ensure that all Chinese incursions across the Line of Actual Control within the border areas are stopped.
The pattern of Chinese behavior is evident throughout the region, including the maritime environment in the East and South China Seas.
Rao stated that China’s nationalism and authoritarianism are a poisonous combination, which is steadily increasing tensions in the region.
She writes that the end result is losing your future because of the ongoing conflict between the past and the present, in our quest for vengeful convictions can lead to little in terms of value.
There is room for mutually acceptable solutions beyond emotion and sentiment.This space must be tapped.
But, the chances and possibilities of realising this scenario are becoming less and less if we don’t learn from history.This makes optimism a rare commodity, and it is difficult to believe that the road ahead is easy.
Acceptance of smallness and restricted natures of the current is a must.
Rao says, “Perhaps one could visualize the dramatis personae of our history, majority of which were taken by Grim Reaper), congregating last in some galactic hideaway while they assess the immense liabilities that result from their gambles – and how this burden will affect future generations yet to be born.”
Rao notes that India and China are still “writing the second act” in their story.He writes, “Around them and within their borders, the worlds have changed irrevocably.
However, a thorough and objective analysis of their bilateral interactions in the 50s and 60s can provide useful insights.Although diplomacy is not a life with maps, an in-depth understanding of the history allows us to map new routes and fix faults.
The only way to find the ultimate solution is by combining foresight and hindsight.
The “Fractured Himalaya” tells the complex story of India’s early years with China.Rao’s story is not just based on historical material from India and China, Britain, the United States and China but also on her intimate knowledge of China.Rao also brings an expert’s eye to the complex negotiations and formal interactions between these two countries that occurred from 1949 through 1962.
This book examines the points at which the diplomatic trajectory between these two countries could have been redirected but it was not.It also discusses the dilemma that Tibet poses in relation to India and China, a problem far from solved.This history is interwoven with the question of Tibet.This also reveals the identities of the principal players – Jawaharlal Naehru, Mao Zedong and Zhou Enlai – as well their interactions during the tournament that took place over the years, moving closer to the 1962 conflict.
Question: The Opposition and Government are clearly at loggerheads over the LAC dispute.What can be done to resolve this problem and bring everybody on the same page
Only a dialogue between the Opposition and Government can lead to a solution.
It is important that the Opposition understands the complexity of our problem and the past.Rao stated that this is a matter of national security and national interest.
We must also close ranks within the democratic political system.
The nation cannot be helped by noise and more noise in public spaces – here the media must act responsibly.
She added that the Government needs a communication strategy that anticipates the future direction of public debate and can lead it by explaining the balanced approach needed.
How would developments in Afghanistan impact India-China relations in the near and long term?
China’s strategic alliance and closeness to Pakistan have created a more hostile regional environment that has led to greater tension, alienation, and distance between India-China.China’s strategic vision and intentions vis-a-vis Afghanistan are unclear.The entire current situation in Afghanistan is marked today by uncertainty and increasing levels of suffering for the average Afghan citizen.
Rao stated that China must work with India to help bring about an acceptable regional understanding on Afghanistan.This would ensure that the country has the wellbeing, security, and development of its people at its heart.
(Vishnu Makhijani can be reached at [email protected])
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