The article “Asian Drama” (March 7) made an interesting read. However, I have a few reservations about the scenario described. Though it cannot be denied that India and China would make great trading partners given their inconsistent strategic aspirations, India is unlikely to be a viable option for China to offset its “rising labour costs and decelerating growth”. India’s deepening engagement with Southeast and Northeast Asia is precisely targeted at balancing China’s rise and influence.
China may have deep pockets, but Indians have deep reservations about Chinese intentions and Brand China. Though slow movers, this is not true of the Japanese or the Koreans.
Rohit Viswanath
Project Associate,
Research and Capacity Building
in Strategic and Economic International Relations,
Icrier, New Delhi
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