Experts: China branding India’s Foreign Minister as a ‘Problem’ in midst of border tensions for political gains
Experts believe that China’s criticism of India’s Foreign Affairs Minister, Subrahmanyam Jaishankar, may be part of a strategic move leading up to the BRICS summit.
In recent remarks, China’s state media singled out Jaishankar, labeling him a “problem” in India-China relations due to his comments about Beijing.
With the upcoming BRICS summit approaching, analysts suggest that China’s critique of Jaishankar could serve as a defensive response to his outspoken criticism of China or as a strategic narrative to advance China’s interests.
The BRICS organization, initially consisting of Brazil, Russia, India, and China, expanded to include South Africa in 2010 and other nations later on. Given India’s tense relationship with China amid ongoing border disputes, this issue is expected to be a key focus at the forthcoming summit.
The clash between Beijing and the Indian foreign minister sheds light on the geopolitics and complex dynamics of India-China relations. By targeting Jaishankar personally, China might be aiming to present other high-level Indian officials as more receptive to dialogue between the two nations.
The Issue with ‘S. Jaishankar’
China’s Global Times recently published an opinion piece criticizing Jaishankar directly, indicating a “S. Jaishankar problem” in India’s diplomacy. Jaishankar’s repeated emphasis on China’s adversarial relationship with India has drawn this specific criticism.
This is not the first time the Global Times has singled out Jaishankar for critique, underscoring the nuanced complexities in India-China relations.
As a former Indian ambassador to China, Jaishankar has returned as the foreign minister following Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s reelection for a third term in June.
A Strategic Approach
According to Satyendra Pradhan, a former Indian deputy national security adviser, China’s criticism of Jaishankar reflects a strategic narrative aimed at aligning with China’s interests in bilateral relationships and multilateral fora. The aim might be to counter Jaishankar’s assertiveness in voicing India’s concerns.
Pradhan also highlighted China’s need to maintain close economic ties with India due to its economic challenges and emphasized India’s growing importance in global affairs.
He suggested that the criticism from the Global Times was part of a broader strategy to deflect blame onto Jaishankar while portraying other Indian officials as more amenable to dialogue with China.
Addressing Border Concerns
Amid strained relations and border disputes between India and China, Jaishankar has consistently emphasized the need for cooperation and the restoration of peace along the border areas. His recent speeches have underlined the critical importance of mutual respect, sensitivity, and interests for positive engagement between the two countries.
Despite ongoing challenges, Jaishankar’s efforts at promoting dialogue and addressing contentious border issues have been met with criticism from Chinese media, reflecting differing perspectives on the India-China relationship.
