Negative Peace - India-China Relations

Negative Peace: An Analysis of India-China Relations
Introduction
Negative peace, as a concept, extends beyond the mere absence of violence and war and
unresolved disputes that can flare up at any time.In international relations, the relationship
between India and China is a relevant case study.
In this paper, we delve into the intricacies of negative peace within the context of the India-
China relationship, exploring its multiple facets, repercussions, and potential suggestions for
advancing a regional and global order characterized by greater stability and constructive
cooperation.
Main Theme
Defining Negative Peace in India-China Relations

Negative peace in India-China relations signifies a scenario where both nations have successfully
averted large-scale military confrontations, yet they retain lingering territorial disputes,
geopolitical rivalries, and historical grievances. This state reflects an uneasy coexistence marked
by latent tensions that periodically erupt in border skirmishes or diplomatic standoffs.
Causes and Manifestations of Negative Peace in India-China

Relations
The negative peace between India and China stems from several causes, including boundary
disputes, differing regional ambitions, and historical animosities.
1. Sino-Indian border dispute:
The long-standing border issue in regions like Ladakh and Arunachal Pradesh remains
unresolved, leading to periodic military standoffs. It is worth mentioning that due to its size and
population, the state of Arunachal Pradesh holds the utmost significance in the Sino-India border
dispute.
In view of changing international dynamics, the US has designated India as its strategic partner
to counter growing Chinese influence in the region.
2. Water Resource Disputes:
The sharing of transboundary rivers, such as the Brahmaputra (Yarlung Tsangpo), has been a
longstanding issue between India and China. China's construction of dams and diversion projects
on these rivers has raised concerns in India about water security, adding to the tensions.
In 2021, China formally approved the outline of its 14th Five-Year Plan (2021-2025), which
prioritizes several key strategic hydroelectric projects on the Brahmaputra River.
3. Competing Regional Alliances:
India's growing ties with countries like the United States and Japan, seen as a response to China's
assertiveness, contribute to regional competition and instability. China's alignment with Pakistan
also fuels regional rivalries.
4. Military Buildup:
India and China are beefing up their military presence along their border because they don't trust
each other, and this makes the situation more competitive and tense.The manifestations of
negative peace in this relationship are evident in sporadic border clashes, diplomatic tensions,
and economic competition.
Consequences of Negative Peace in India-China Relations

Negative peace in the India-China relationship has significant consequences for the region and
the world.
1. Geopolitical Competition:
India sees China’s proposed projects, and in particular, the flagship Belt and Road Initiative as
a means to counter India’s influence. For China, a South Asia where India is the unrivaled
hegemon will threaten not only its status in the region, but its internal security as well, such as
vis-à-vis Tibet.
2. Economic challenges:
India and China have trade imbalances, with China's exports to India far exceeding India's
exports to China. Additionally, India has imposed restrictions on Chinese investments and
banned Chinese apps like TikTok due to security concerns, leading to economic tensions
between the two nations.
3. Security Concerns:
Ongoing border disputes and military standoffs, such as those in Ladakh in 2020, contribute to
regional security concerns. These incidents have led to heightened tensions, requiring diplomatic
efforts to manage and prevent escalation.
Recommendations
Following recommendations could be taken in order to move forward:
1. Diplomacy and Border Management:
Prioritizing diplomatic dialogue to peacefully resolve border disputes is essential. Establishing
and adhering to transparent border management protocols can prevent unintended military
confrontations.
2. Embracing Cooperation for Positive Peace:
India and China should seek opportunities for cooperation beyond disputes, including
collaborative efforts in trade, cultural exchange, and environmental protection. Encouraging non-
governmental actors in Track II diplomacy can enhance mutual understanding and dialogue.
3. Regional Stability:
International organizations like the United Nations and regional bodies such as the Shanghai
Cooperation Organization should play active roles in facilitating dialogue and encouraging
peaceful conflict resolution. Major global powers should support mediation efforts to reduce
tensions.
4. Economic Integration:
India and China should explore avenues for greater economic integration and collaboration,
including the creation of mutually beneficial trade agreements and investment initiatives. A
closer economic partnership can serve as a stabilizing force, fostering interdependence and
reducing the likelihood of conflict.
Conclusion
Resolving the state of negative peace in India-China relations requires a commitment to conflict
resolution, confidence-building measures, and international mediation.By prioritizing
cooperation and addressing underlying disputes, both nations can contribute to regional stability
and global harmony.Negative peace in India-China relations is a precarious state where
underlying disputes and rivalries persist, posing a constant threat to regional and global stability.
Its consequences are far-reaching, hindering economic progress and complicating diplomatic
efforts. To achieve a more stable and cooperative regional order, India and China must prioritize
conflict resolution, confidence-building, and cooperation. International actors also have a role to
play in mediating disputes and fostering peace. Only through these concerted efforts can the
region move from a state of negative peace to one characterized by genuine harmony and
cooperation.
References
● https://www.ndu.edu.pk/issra/pub/insight/2023/SINO-INDIA-BORDER-DISPUTES-AN-
APPRAISAL/SINO-INDIA-BORDER-DISPUTES-AN-APPRAISAL.pdf
● India China Brahmaputra Issue - China Plans Dam on Brahmaputra!.
● https://www.jstor.org/stable/48717990
● https://www.orfonline.org/research/india-china-competition/
● https://jsr.usb.ac.ir/article_4064.html?lang=en

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Negative Peace: An Analysis of India-China Relations

Defining Negative Peace in India-China Relations

Causes and Manifestations of Negative Peace in India-China

Consequences of Negative Peace in India-China Relations

● India China Brahmaputra Issue - China Plans Dam on Brahmaputra!.

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