Vantage | Will Bhutan King's visit ease India's concerns about China?

In recent years, Bhutan, an important neighbour to India, has seen a significant shift in its diplomatic relations, particularly with China. Bhutan, which has traditionally conducted its international affairs through India, is now moving closer to establishing formal diplomatic ties with China, much to India’s concern. This shift has raised questions about the impact on Indian interests in the region. The ongoing visit of Bhutan’s King to India is expected to shed light on these evolving dynamics.

Changing landscape

Bhutan’s traditional approach to foreign relations has involved maintaining a close partnership with India while refraining from forming formal ties with any of the five permanent members of the UN Security Council including China. This strategic stance aimed to avoid getting caught in big power politics. However, recent developments indicate a significant change in Bhutan’s approach.

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A notable development was the visit of Bhutan’s foreign minister to China marking a first in their diplomatic interactions. During this visit, Bhutan and China issued a joint statement and engaged in boundary talks. This was the first such dialogue in over seven years. China expressed its desire to normalise ties with Bhutan, a proposition that the Bhutanese foreign minister Tandi Dorji appeared keen to explore.

Border dispute

The most prominent obstacle in Bhutan’s pursuit of formal relations with China is the disputed border including territories like Doklam. This area holds strategic significance for India as it is close to the Siliguri Corridor, a narrow strip of land that connects India to its northeastern states. If China were to control Doklam, it could potentially disrupt India’s access to the northeastern regions.

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In 2017, India and China were embroiled in a 73-day standoff in Doklam when China attempted to construct a road in the region. India intervened on behalf of Bhutan safeguarding Bhutan’s territorial integrity while also protecting its own interests. This incident demonstrated the importance of Doklam to India’s national security.

However, the situation has evolved since then. Bhutan’s direct engagement with China in boundary talks and discussions regarding formal diplomatic relations is taking place without India’s direct involvement. The shifting dynamics pose new challenges for India in protecting its interests.

India’s diplomatic challenge

India’s primary concern is the potential erosion of its influence in Bhutan and the ongoing border talks. India must now articulate its interests clearly to Bhutan and closely monitor China’s activities in the region. The visit of Bhutan’s King to India provides an opportunity for both sides to exchange perspectives and address concerns about Bhutan’s evolving relationship with China.

Views expressed in the above piece are personal and solely that of the author. They do not necessarily reflect Firstpost’s views.

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