In Troubled Waters

Context: The situation in eastern Ladakh may be deadlocked, but China’s regional challenge is still present. 

China’s Regional Geopolitical Challenge for India

• China’s closeness to Bangladesh: 
• While India-Bangladesh oppose each other over Teesta water sharing, China has put proposal for management and restoration of the Teesta river, lying adjacent to Sliguri corridor.
•  In June, Bangladesh asked China for funds for nine new projects worth $6.4 billion, including for a new port at Payra, the Barisal-Bhola bridge and a technology park. 
• Chinese debt trap diplomacy in Sri Lanka: China considers Sri Lanka as a vital link in the maritime component of its Belt and Road Initiative and a possibility of free trade agreement between them might affect Sri Lanka’s India first’ policy.
• China is currently involved in building Sri Lanka’s ambitious Port City project being constructed by a subsidiary of the China Communications Construction Company (CCCC) which was placed under sanctions by the US recently.
• Last year, Sri Lanka got a $480 million loan from the US for building its infrastructure. 
• China’s diplomatic drive in Southeast Asian countries: might worsen India’s already deteriorating relationship with ASEAN countries due to its exit from Regional Comprehensive and Economic Partnership (RCEP).

Conclusion: India needs to work out a positive agenda across the board, rather than being relying on sceptical diplomacy.