What are the Main Irritants Between India and China

 Main Irritants Between India and China


India and China, despite being two of Asia’s largest powers with growing economies, face multiple challenges in their bilateral relationship. These "irritants" often prevent the development of trust and long-term cooperation.



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1. Border Dispute:

The most serious irritant is the long-standing border dispute, particularly in Aksai Chin (controlled by China, claimed by India) and Arunachal Pradesh (controlled by India, claimed by China as “South Tibet”). Frequent standoffs at the Line of Actual Control (LAC), like the 2020 Galwan Valley clash, have worsened ties.



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2. Strategic Rivalry:

China’s expanding presence in South Asia through initiatives like the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) and its close ties with Pakistan are seen as encirclement by India. In response, India has strengthened its partnerships with countries like the US, Japan, and Australia (through the Quad), which China views suspiciously.



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3. China–Pakistan Nexus:

China’s deepening relationship with Pakistan, especially through the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) that runs through Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK), is a major concern for India. It is viewed as an attack on India’s sovereignty.



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4. Trade Imbalance:

While China is one of India’s largest trading partners, there is a massive trade deficit in China’s favor. India imports far more than it exports to China, creating economic dependence and concern about the impact on Indian industries.



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5. Chinese Activities in the Indian Ocean:

China’s increasing naval activity and the development of ports in countries like Sri Lanka (Hambantota) and Pakistan (Gwadar) under the “String of Pearls” strategy is seen as a security threat by India.



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6. Technological and Cyber Concerns:

India has banned several Chinese apps and restricted Chinese investments in sensitive sectors due to concerns about data security, espionage, and cyber threats, particularly after the 2020 border standoff.



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7. Lack of Trust and Diplomatic Differences:

Despite holding multiple rounds of talks, both countries have not been able to establish mutual strategic trust. Issues like China’s opposition to India’s entry into the Nuclear Suppliers Group (NSG) and refusal to support India’s bid for a permanent UN Security Council seat also strain relations.



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Conclusion:


These irritants have prevented India and China from building a stable and cooperative relationship. Although both nations engage in dialogue, underlying mistrust, unresolved territorial issues, and competing regional ambitions continue to dominate their interactions.


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