Samreen Fatima's Blog

India–China–Pakistan: A pipedream?

May 2, 2018
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In the history of International relations, we have seen arch-enemies transforming into staunch allies and becoming the agents of co-operation and integration for the common good. Anarchical system of the world puts the states at helm (Realist and Constructivist may debate!), but history is full of such examples where disputants came to terms of coalition, in the most hostile of situations. It is always a recognition of shared interests and goals that leads to a reformulation of ties. A tie so impregnable that could supersede all conflicts of the past.

The Balance -of-power game has always been there with key actors shifting from time to time.In the 21rst century world, states pursue geoeconomics, which underlays the incentives for geopolitical aspirations. Using economic instruments to achieve political goals has always been an integral part of Foreign Policy of states, it is the recent aggression of China as a geoeconomic actor that seems to alter fundamental conception of International Relations. As a result of which India-China-Pakistan lay in an interactive domain, giving hopes to the idea of resolution and effective co-operation. India and Pakistan being in close proximity whereas India-China trade partnership reaching up to $ 84.4 billion, the recent developments put them in a complex interdependence matrix.

Can it be dealt by diplomacy?

India has territorial issues with both China and Pakistan, this situation puts the three nations in a very intricate dynamics, when it comes to diplomatic negotiations. A unique trilateral coalition could be regarded as a milestone in International relations, a coalition that could serve as a core for accretion of other Asia-pacific countries maybe like EU. It can be the focal point of alliance realm of Asia-pacific ,streamlining the whole system.

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Territorial dispute is a key issue for any state but a there’s a pressing need for a framework that can give options to work beyond the formally institutionalized format. A dialogue based on previous relations can lead to an unending spiral which eventually becomes a futile exercise. Issues at hand need to be considered meticulously that may provide with the options that pedals the parties towards a viable solution.

In order to give diplomacy a chance to work, we need to adopt a politics of expediency, that might conceivably reduce the tensions among nations. These countries will emerge as major determinants of the future, influences and shape of Asia.

There could be a range of creative solutions preferable for each party, but initiation of any such negotiation hinges upon the factors such as:

— Taking the less congested road first- trade relations and economic interests.

— Mutual and conflicting interests need to be identified with each party clarifying what it has to concede and accept.

— Identify the issues at hand, redefine if needed and present the alternatives.

The process of negotiation could be grime and tedious but it can be escalated to a commitment that would diminish the distrust, improve trade and business and ultimately lives of the people. It surely can’t be seen in a myopic way as the world looks at us as the key force of change and new forms of engagement is what it needs.

To conclude I’d say, ”If history is shaped by conflicts, we know how to shape our future” There’s no reset button, its high time each party decides what role it wants for itself in the region.

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