External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar emphasized India’s complex and challenging relationship with China, stating that India faces a “special China problem” that goes beyond the global community’s general concerns about the country.
Speaking at the ET World Leaders Forum, Jaishankar pointed out that China’s unique political and economic systems make it a complex challenge not just for India, but for the world at large. He noted that even countries without direct borders with China, such as the United States and European nations, are grappling with major economic and national security debates centered around China.
“China in many ways is a unique problem because it is a unique polity, it is a unique economy. Unless one tries to grasp that uniqueness and understand it, the judgements, the conclusions and the policy prescriptions flowing out of it can be problematic,” Jaishankar said.
The minister emphasized that India’s issues with China are distinct from those faced by other countries, particularly the United States. He highlighted that decades ago, the world chose to overlook problems in China, but now everyone is facing the consequences.
“India has a China problem… a special China problem that is over and above the world’s general China problem,” Jaishankar stated.
Regarding investments from China, Jaishankar clarified that the government does not have a blanket policy against such investments. However, he acknowledged that given the current state of India-China relations, particularly the border situation, it is common sense to scrutinize investments from China.
“On the investments issue, it is common sense that investments from China would be scrutinised. I think the border and state of relations between India and China call for it,” Jaishankar said.
The minister emphasized the need for a balanced approach, stating that while he is pro-investment and pro-growth, there should be a level of scrutiny to maintain a balance.
Jaishankar’s remarks underscore the unique challenges India faces in its relationship with China and the need for a nuanced and strategic approach in navigating this complex geopolitical landscape.