The release of the 2023 edition of the "standard map of China" by Beijing has sparked controversy and drawn attention from various countries. Former Chief of Army Staff General Manoj Naravane took to X (formerly Twitter) to share a map that depicts China's territory as it truly is. This colorful map demarcates several regions, including Ladakh and Tibet, as 'occupied' areas. The move has ignited discussions about China's territorial claims and its impact on neighboring countries.
China's Territorial Claim and Global Reactions
Just a few days before General Naravane's map post, Beijing released its so-called "standard map of China," which included Taiwan, the South China Sea, Arunachal Pradesh, and Aksai Chin as Chinese territories. However, India rejected this map and strongly protested against it, emphasizing that such steps only complicate the resolution of the boundary question. Several ASEAN member countries, including Japan, Malaysia, Vietnam, and the Philippines, also reacted sharply to China's territorial claim and its "standard map." These countries have been advocating for a binding code of conduct (COC) in the South China Sea due to China's consistent attempts to assert its expansive claims over the region.
Indian Officials' Visit to Taipei
In a significant move, General Naravane, along with former Navy Chief Karambir Singh and former Air Chief Marshal RKS Bhadauria, visited Taipei, Taiwan. This visit holds particular significance as India does not have formal diplomatic relations with Taiwan, which Beijing claims as a breakaway region. The presence of Indian officials in Taipei has led to speculation about India's stance on Chinese aggression against Taiwan. China, in response, firmly opposed all forms of official interaction between the Taiwan authorities and countries having diplomatic relations with China.
The Background: India-China Border Row
The strained relationship between India and China can be traced back to the eastern Ladakh border row that began in May 2020. Indian and Chinese troops have been engaged in a confrontation at various friction points in eastern Ladakh, despite disengagement efforts through diplomatic and military talks. India has consistently emphasized that peace and tranquillity along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) are crucial for the normalization of overall relations.
China's Defense of the New Map
China defended the release of its new "standard map" for 2023, stating that it is a routine practice in accordance with its law. When asked about India's diplomatic protest, the Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson urged India to "stay objective and calm" and refrain from "over-interpreting" the issue. China's Ministry of National Resources released the 2023 edition of the map as part of its exercise of sovereignty.
The Impact on India-China Relations
The visit of Indian officials to Taipei and the subsequent controversy surrounding the map have had implications for India-China relations. While India follows the 'One China policy' and does not have formal diplomatic ties with Taiwan, the visit has raised questions about India's stance on Chinese aggression in the region. The strained relationship between the two countries due to the border row and China's territorial claims has created an atmosphere of tension and mistrust.
The Importance of the ASEAN Countries' Stand
The reaction of ASEAN member countries, such as Japan, Malaysia, Vietnam, and the Philippines, to China's territorial claim and its "standard map" is significant. These countries have been advocating for a binding code of conduct (COC) in the South China Sea to counter China's assertive actions in the region. China's consistent attempts to expand its claims in the South China Sea have raised concerns among neighboring countries and have led to a call for a united stand against China's territorial ambitions.
The Need for a Peaceful Resolution
Amidst the ongoing tensions and territorial disputes, a peaceful resolution is essential for the stability and prosperity of the region. The boundary question between India and China, as well as China's claims in the South China Sea, need to be addressed through dialogue and diplomatic negotiations. The international community, including the ASEAN countries, plays a crucial role in promoting peaceful resolutions and upholding the principles of international law.
Conclusion
The controversy surrounding the map of China and the reactions it has garnered from various countries highlight the complex nature of territorial disputes in the region. The visit of Indian officials to Taipei and the release of China's "standard map" have further strained India-China relations. The ASEAN countries' stand on China's territorial claims and their call for a binding code of conduct in the South China Sea underscore the importance of a united front against China's expansionist actions. Ultimately, a peaceful resolution through dialogue and diplomatic negotiations is crucial to maintain stability and promote cooperation in the region.