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| Edited By: |Source: DNA |Updated: Jun 30, 2018, 03:05 AM IST
It’s interesting to note how India is being wooed by both US and China, the latter deciding to send a senior general to New Delhi to recalibrate bilateral ties. Major-general Liu Xiaowu’s visit – the dates haven’t been fixed yet – is aimed at defusing tension between the two countries since events at the border in the recent past led to hostilities and the spectre of war.
In April, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping had met during an informal summit in central China. It was considered a major breakthrough for peace after the 73-day Doklam stand-off in Bhutan. The two leaders had expressed keenness in resolving border disputes and taking Indo-China friendship to a new level.
The Chinese general’s India visit will give momentum to that process. China needs India more than ever because of the Belt and Road Initiative, which India has refused to be part of for obvious reasons. PM Modi couldn’t have approved of a project that disrespects India’s territorial integrity and sovereignty. To build a lasting relationship, Beijing and New Delhi must address each other’s concerns.
It’s common sense that China’s patronage of Pakistan will affect its relationship with India. By choosing a wrong ally, it can end up losing a dependable friend. Sooner than later Beijing will realise the monumental folly of backing a corrupt-to-the-core country that exports terror.
General Xiaowu will also visit Pakistan, which means that China is hedging its bets for now. India should make the most of the general’s visit for its own good. One thing is for certain: US-India ties have unnerved China.
