China-India contemporary relations: Geopolitical challenges to the small states in South Asia

Abstract

Background: The two Asian giants, India and China, have shown unprecedented growth and development in recent decades. The bilateral relationship between them has experienced turbulences, even wars, but their trade and economic relations date centuries back. These characteristics of cooperation and conflict between India and China with aspirations to become major powers globally have tuned up the competitiveness, along with collaborations in some areas, conflicts and contestations in others. This unique relationship with antagonistic cooperation has implications for South Asian states, particularly the small states. Methods: Realising the research gap on a complete view of contemporary India-China relations and its future repercussions in South Asia, the study hypothesises that the contemporary India-China relations not only have consequences but also brings challenges to the small states in South Asia. The paper primarily focuses on present China-India relations and the geopolitical challenges to the South Asian small states. Hence, it is crucial to comprehend ‘What is the nature and pattern of contemporary China-India relations?’ and ‘What are the geopolitical challenges to the small states because of this unforeseen relation?’ The study revisits the historical relationship between India and China examining the trend of collaborations and contestations between them. It also discusses the increasing forays of China in South Asia and the deepening US-India relationship to counter those looming Chinese influences. Results: Notably, the research identifies severe geopolitical challenges for South Asian small states because of those fluctuations in the relationship. The rise of China and deepening India-USA ties have equally added fuel to the geopolitical competition between India and China. Although there is immense competition, the two countries cooperate in the economic domains. Also, the study points out the challenges for the small states evolving due to the major power politics in and near the region.