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12th July 2024 (9 Topics)

Reading the tea leaves ahead of China’s Third Plenum

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Context

The upcoming Third Plenum of China's 20th Party Congress, scheduled for July 15-18, 2024, has sparked global interest due to its potential to signify a shift in China's economic and foreign policies.

Significance of the Third Plenum:

  • Historical Importance: Third Plenums typically set China's economic strategy for the next 5-10 years, with the 1978 Plenum under Deng Xiaoping being a landmark event for economic reforms.
  • Economic Challenges: China faces issues such as an aging population, shrinking workforce, high debt levels, and economic slowdown, necessitating potential reforms.
  • Global Expectations: There is speculation about possible sweeping reforms to ensure China's rapid progress, though uncertainty remains about the current leadership's willingness to experiment with new ideas.

China's Current Stance and Global Perceptions:

  • Continued Assertiveness: Western commentators expect China to maintain its "gray zone coercion" tactics, including disinformation campaigns, military provocations, and threats to Taiwan.
  • Global Initiatives: China's Global Development Initiative (GDI), Global Security Initiative (GSI), and Global Civilization Initiative (GCI) reflect its values and national security priorities.
  • Regional Concerns: Countries in Asia may need to contend with a mix of Chinese cultural expansionism and national security paranoia.

India-China Relations and Future Prospects:

  • Strained Ties: India-China relations have been under strain since 2020, primarily due to border tensions.
  • Strategic Concerns: India's strategic community highlights concerns about China's growing missile and nuclear inventory, space capabilities, and electronic warfare advancements.
  • Diplomatic Opportunity: The article suggests that India, given its current strong position, could take a diplomatic initiative to improve relations with China, potentially benefiting both countries and global peace.
UPSC Mains Questions:

Q. Evaluate the challenges and opportunities in India-China relations in light of recent geopolitical developments. What role can diplomacy play in managing bilateral tensions?

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