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Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Maldives...why India need to act cautiously to counter China?

The article discusses India's strategic concerns regarding China's increasing influence in South Asia, particularly in Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, and the Maldives. It highlights how China's Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) has led to significant infrastructure investments in these countries, often resulting in economic dependencies and strategic leverage for China. In Bangladesh, despite India's historical ties, China has become a major investor, especially in infrastructure projects. Sri Lanka's Hambantota port, now leased to China for 99 years, exemplifies the "debt-trap diplomacy" where countries unable to repay Chinese loans cede strategic assets. The Maldives has also seen a shift towards China, with infrastructure projects and a pro-China stance under former President Yameen. The article suggests that India needs to act cautiously by enhancing economic engagement, offering transparent and sustainable development aid, and strengthening diplomatic relations to counterbalance China's growing presence without pushing these nations further into China's orbit. This approach involves not just economic aid but also cultural and people-to-people connections to maintain influence in its neighborhood.

Read the Full MSN Article at:
[ https://www.msn.com/en-in/politics/government/bangladesh-sri-lanka-maldives-why-india-need-to-act-cautiously-to-counter-china/ar-AA1wETMh ]