Geopolitical Chess: India's Strategic Concerns Amid Bhutan-China Border Talks
Bhutan-China Border Talks: A New Phase
Bhutan's Prime Minister Lotay Tshering confirmed that Bhutan and China are nearing the completion of a three-step roadmap to demarcate their boundary,
including the Doklam plateau. The talks also include a possible land exchange between Doklam and areas in northern Bhutan.
India's Stance and Concerns
India has been watching these developments closely. The demarcation and any land swaps between Bhutan and China could have implications for India's security and strategic interests.
Bhutan shares a long border with India and has historically been closely aligned with it. Any shift in Bhutan's foreign policy towards China could be a concern for India.
Mutual Understanding and Diplomacy
Bhutan's PM emphasized the importance of mutual understanding among the nations involved over the demarcation formula.
He also stated that Bhutan has time-tested relations with India and that the country is "south-facing" in terms of geography, emotions, and trade.
India Kept in the Loop?
While Bhutan's PM did not explicitly state how much India has been kept in the loop, he did mention that Bhutan aims to consider the interests of all parties involved, including India.
Dynamic Foreign Policy
When asked about establishing diplomatic ties with China, Bhutan's PM stated that every country should have a dynamic foreign policy but did not confirm any immediate plans to establish formal relations with China.
Security Implications for India
The ongoing talks and potential land swaps could have security implications for India, especially if they lead to changes in the status quo in the Doklam area, which is strategically important for India.
India's Concerns About Doklam
The Doklam plateau is a strategically important area located at the tri-junction of India, Bhutan, and China. In 2017, a military standoff occurred between India and China when the Chinese attempted to extend a road in the Doklam area.
India intervened on behalf of Bhutan, leading to heightened tensions. The area is of significant concern to India due to its proximity to the "Chicken's Neck," a narrow corridor that connects mainland India to its northeastern states.
In summary, the ongoing Bhutan-China border talks are being closely monitored by India due to their potential impact on regional security and India's strategic interests.
