Hallmark of Mature Leadership
Mature leaders prioritize peaceful dispute resolution and prevent conflicts from escalating.
Historical disputes may trigger conflicts, but they can be defused through dialogue.
Example: The India-China disengagement post-Galwan Valley standoff in 2020, enabled by political will and diplomatic talks.
Call for Cooperation Over Hostility
Leaders of India and China must decide between:
Comprehensive, mutually beneficial cooperation.
Minimal cooperation and increased rivalry, risking future military clashes.
Cooperation ensures peace along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) and contributes to global stability.
Hostility exacerbates geopolitical tensions and global woes.
Strategic Choices for Cooperation
Both nations need bold thinking and mutual efforts to alleviate apprehensions.
China’s Responsibilities:
Reassure India of no threat to its national security, including distancing itself from Pakistan-sponsored terrorism.
Advocate for India’s permanent membership in the UN Security Council.
Respect India as an equal in a multipolar world.
India’s Responsibilities:
Avoid over-reliance on the U.S. or confrontational alliances like the Quad.
Maintain the “One China” policy and avoid provocative gestures regarding Taiwan or Tibet.
Counter anti-China propaganda in Indian media and academia to build a balanced narrative.
Civilisational Perspective
India and China’s shared history suggests collaboration over rivalry.
Both nations should pursue higher ideals: peace, global development, climate action, and cultural rejuvenation.
Trust-Building Opportunities
Strategic cooperation between India and China benefits their economies:
India’s market aids China’s slowing economy.
China’s technology supports India’s development goals.
Collaboration can benefit the Global South and underdeveloped nations in Asia, Africa, and Latin America.
Joint efforts in global governance, peace initiatives (e.g., Russia-Ukraine war, Myanmar), and regional development (e.g., BCIM Corridor) are crucial.
Immediate Steps for Trust-Building
Resume direct flights between the two countries.
Issue visas for Chinese nationals, including businesspeople, scholars, and tourists.
Allow Chinese and Indian journalists to operate in both countries.
Lift the ban on Chinese apps to encourage digital collaboration.
Balance bilateral trade by increasing Chinese imports from India and encouraging joint ventures and investments.
Vision for 2025
Make 2025 a breakthrough year for India-China cooperation.
Facilitate high-level visits, such as Xi Jinping visiting India or Narendra Modi visiting China, to strengthen bilateral ties.
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