In a surprising turn of events, China finds itself on the losing side of its diplomatic game as India takes a firm stance against Beijing's support for Pakistan and attempts to isolate India on the Kashmir issue. The recent G20 meeting on the Tourism Working Group held in Srinagar, with over 60 invitees from member countries, was a significant international event in Kashmir since the abrogation of Article 370 in 2019. This gathering showcased India's strong message to Islamabad and its allies. Pakistan's attempts to internationalize the Kashmir issue have gained little support, apart from China.
China's investment in the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) has made it difficult for Beijing to speak against Pakistan's narrative on Kashmir. Consequently, the Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson opposed the G20 meeting, citing it as taking place on "disputed territory." However, this opens up opportunities for India to turn the tables and assert its own diplomatic strategies.
India has various options to counter China's acts in disputed territories. It has already expressed its protest against a third party's involvement in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK), considering the activities under the CPEC as illegal and unacceptable. India argues that if China does not withdraw its commercial activities from the disputed territory that belongs to India, it should be treated as an act of aggression.
Moreover, on the issue of Taiwan, India has expressed concern over recent developments and called on China to exercise restraint and avoid unilateral actions to change the status quo. India has refrained from reaffirming the "One China Policy" due to China's claims over Arunachal Pradesh and attempts to bring disputed categorization to areas in Bhutan. To strengthen ties with Taiwan, India should consider establishing an official relationship and allowing Taipei to open a diplomatic office. Similarly, India can explore a similar approach for Tibet, supporting the aspirations of the Tibetan people to reclaim their land and culture.
India can also counter the claims of human rights violations by inviting Fernand de Varennes, the UN's special rapporteur on minority issues, to visit Jammu, Kashmir, Ladakh, Tibet, and Xinjiang. This would provide an opportunity for him to witness the ground realities and educate himself on the situation in these regions.
Although countries like Turkey, Egypt, Saudi Arabia, and Indonesia have aligned themselves with China by not registering for the G20 meeting in Jammu and Kashmir, it is crucial to note that their support for Pakistan and China's economic interests may change in the future. As the Indian economy continues to grow and offer untapped potential, these countries may reconsider their positions and explore business opportunities with India. India's patient and diplomatic approach can gradually sway these nations towards mutually beneficial partnerships.
India's strategic diplomatic moves, demonstrated through the G20 meeting in Srinagar and its firm stance on disputed territories, showcase the country's determination to assert its position on the global stage. By tactfully navigating diplomatic challenges and showcasing the truth objectively, India aims to turn the tables on China's game and strengthen its alliances with nations that share its perspectives on issues such as Kashmir, Tibet, and human rights violations.
