Dear President Xi,

Hope this finds you well and safe from the ravages of the virus you’ve gifted us. You’ll appreciate that thanks are not in order and shall not be extended. Suffice to say, we’re doing the best we can, given the soup, a&nbsp;certain kind of soup has landed us in. This has been the most unsavoury business in a century and might I add that your conduct isn’t helping at all. &nbsp;

The pandemic was bad enough, and for a while, at least in the beginning, the world seemed prepared to concede that it may not have been entirely your fault. But you did not play a straight bat, if you know what I mean, and now find yourself on a sticky wicket. Play wisely now, dear Sir, or you shall be out.

If I may be so impertinent to suggest that the first thing you must do is give your advisors the marching orders, preferably not towards any border towns, as you may have already realized the futility of such ill-advised adventures. Your courtiers have not been telling you the truth, not even a close estimation of it. Quite the contrary, in fact. They’ve led you to believe that China is at the centre of the world and your wish is the world’s command. I’m afraid that’s not the case, and fervently hope it never is.&nbsp;

In keeping with our neighbourly duties, we at WION decided to apprise you of the cracks appearing in your propaganda walls, and forewarn you about your roof leaking with falsehoods. Our forthrightness seems to have not agreed with your team for they have now blocked us. While we suffered your intrusions into our borders, our phones, our homes, even our Diwali decorations in the spirit of neighbourly forbearance, your blocking of our channel was most unbecoming and graceless. Nonetheless, all’s not lost and you’re in luck that you’re dealing with the land of Buddha where people are blessed with the faculty of immense patience.&nbsp;

So let me start by introducing you to the concept of free speech. Fret not, it may be new to you and may take a while to understand, but once you do you shall find yourself discovering its joys. Free speech operates on the principle that every human being, Communist or otherwise, Han Chinese or Uighur Chinese, has the right to say what he or she thinks. It often involves thoughts that you’d much rather not be acquainted with, or in your particular case would want to erase any traces of. Free speech has its advantages, like rendering water canons and the security law in Hong Kong redundant. Imagine the possibilities!

It is on the concept of free speech that a free press works. It tells you stories, ideally based on facts, that your deputies won’t. Blocking it is a disservice to yourself and your people. You’ve boxed yourself in an echo chamber of yes-men; I imagine it can be frustrating, an existence devoid of varied opinion, emotion and vigour. Your belligerence betrays this frustration. So as the first sign of making amends, which our persistent hope is that you want to, you must unblock WION.&nbsp;

Mr President, you like to show the world that you’re an avid reader of the classics. Why, you share reading lists comprising Greek, French, German and Russian writers, which people in China dutifully like! As a teenager working in the poor yellow earth of Northern Shaanxi, you were reportedly obsessed by the Shakespearean question “to be, or not to be.” I urge you to ask yourself that question again and decide not to be the leader who goes down in history as the one who led his country to ruin to fulfill his ambition, and satiate his hunger for power and land. May I recommend a reading of the Bhagwad Gita to douse your lust for what doesn’t belong to you. You had a once in a lifetime opportunity to lead the largest country in the world, but your greed is whittling it away, one dispute at a time.&nbsp;

I’m not holding my breath for you to see the point I’m making, but I’ll be none the worse for trying to make you see it.&nbsp;

Sincerely, 
Palki Sharma&nbsp; 
Executive Editor,&nbsp; 
WION - WORLD IS ONE

Dear President Xi, Hope this finds you well and safe from the ravages of the virus you’ve gifted us. You’ll appreciate that thanks are not in order and shall not be extended.

Dear President Xi, Hope this finds you well and safe from the ravages of the virus you’ve gifted us. You’ll appreciate that thanks are not in order and shall not be extended. Suffice to say, we’re doing the best we can, given the soup, a certain kind of soup has landed us in. This has been the most unsavoury business in a century and might I add that your conduct isn’t helping at all. The pandemic was bad enough, and for a while, at least in the beginning, the world seemed prepared to concede that it may not have been entirely your fault. But you did not play a straight bat, if you know what I mean, and now find yourself on a sticky wicket. Play wisely now, dear Sir, or you shall be out. If I may be so impertinent to suggest that the first thing you must do is give your advisors the marching orders, preferably not towards any border towns, as you may have already realized the futility of such ill-advised adventures. Your courtiers have not been telling you the truth, not even a close estimation of it. Quite the contrary, in fact. They’ve led you to believe that China is at the centre of the world and your wish is the world’s command. I’m afraid that’s not the case, and fervently hope it never is. In keeping with our neighbourly duties, we at WION decided to apprise you of the cracks appearing in your propaganda walls, and forewarn you about your roof leaking with falsehoods. Our forthrightness seems to have not agreed with your team for they have now blocked us. While we suffered your intrusions into our borders, our phones, our homes, even our Diwali decorations in the spirit of neighbourly forbearance, your blocking of our channel was most unbecoming and graceless. Nonetheless, all’s not lost and you’re in luck that you’re dealing with the land of Buddha where people are blessed with the faculty of immense patience. So let me start by introducing you to the concept of free speech. Fret not, it may be new to you and may take a while to understand, but once you do you shall find yourself discovering its joys. Free speech operates on the principle that every human being, Communist or otherwise, Han Chinese or Uighur Chinese, has the right to say what he or she thinks. It often involves thoughts that you’d much rather not be acquainted with, or in your particular case would want to erase any traces of. Free speech has its advantages, like rendering water canons and the security law in Hong Kong redundant. Imagine the possibilities! It is on the concept of free speech that a free press works. It tells you stories, ideally based on facts, that your deputies won’t. Blocking it is a disservice to yourself and your people. You’ve boxed yourself in an echo chamber of yes-men; I imagine it can be frustrating, an existence devoid of varied opinion, emotion and vigour. Your belligerence betrays this frustration. So as the first sign of making amends, which our persistent hope is that you want to, you must unblock WION. Mr President, you like to show the world that you’re an avid reader of the classics. Why, you share reading lists comprising Greek, French, German and Russian writers, which people in China dutifully like! As a teenager working in the poor yellow earth of Northern Shaanxi, you were reportedly obsessed by the Shakespearean question “to be, or not to be.” I urge you to ask yourself that question again and decide not to be the leader who goes down in history as the one who led his country to ruin to fulfill his ambition, and satiate his hunger for power and land. May I recommend a reading of the Bhagwad Gita to douse your lust for what doesn’t belong to you. You had a once in a lifetime opportunity to lead the largest country in the world, but your greed is whittling it away, one dispute at a time. I’m not holding my breath for you to see the point I’m making, but I’ll be none the worse for trying to make you see it. Sincerely, Palki Sharma Executive Editor, WION - WORLD IS ONE

An open letter to Chinese President Xi Jinping

Amid tensions between India and China at the Line of Actual Control(LAC), the White House said today that "China's aggressive stance along India-China border fits with the larger pattern of Chinese aggression in other parts of the world."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/china-face-off-fallout-india-to-strengthen-maritime-alliance-in-indo-pacific-region-310087">Also Read:&nbsp;China face-off fallout: India to strengthen maritime alliance in Indo-Pacific region</a>

"These actions only the confirm true nature of Chinese Communist Party," White House press secretary Kayleigh McEnany said.

"We are closely monitoring the situation. Both India and&nbsp;China have expressed the desire to de-escalate," McEnany said adding, "we support a peaceful resolution of the current situation."

India's relations with China hit a new low after the clash at Galwan Valley along LAC&nbsp;on June 15-16 in which led to the death of 20 Indian soldiers. China hasn't revealed its casualty figures although state-run Global Times had said last month that PLA had suffered casualties as well but it was dismissed by China's foreign ministry.

Amid the standoff at the border, the Indian government on Monday banned 59 apps including Tik Tok over national security issue. US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo backed India's move saying: "We welcome India's ban on certain mobile apps that can serve as appendages of the CCP surveillance state."

"India's clean app approach will boost India's sovereignty and will also boost India's integrity and national security, as the Indian government cell itself has stated," the US secretary of state asserted.

Other apps which were also banned include UC browser, ShareIT, WeChat, Weibo, Hello among others. 
&nbsp;

Amid tensions between India and China at the Line of Actual Control(LAC), the White House said today that "China's aggressive stance along India-China border fits with the larger pattern of Chinese aggression in other parts of the world.

Amid tensions between India and China at the Line of Actual Control(LAC), the White House said today that "China's aggressive stance along India-China border fits with the larger pattern of Chinese aggression in other parts of the world." Also Read: China face-off fallout: India to strengthen maritime alliance in Indo-Pacific region "These actions only the confirm true nature of Chinese Communist Party," White House press secretary Kayleigh McEnany said. "We are closely monitoring the situation. Both India and China have expressed the desire to de-escalate," McEnany said adding, "we support a peaceful resolution of the current situation." India's relations with China hit a new low after the clash at Galwan Valley along LAC on June 15-16 in which led to the death of 20 Indian soldiers. China hasn't revealed its casualty figures although state-run Global Times had said last month that PLA had suffered casualties as well but it was dismissed by China's foreign ministry. Amid the standoff at the border, the Indian government on Monday banned 59 apps including Tik Tok over national security issue. US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo backed India's move saying: "We welcome India's ban on certain mobile apps that can serve as appendages of the CCP surveillance state." "India's clean app approach will boost India's sovereignty and will also boost India's integrity and national security, as the Indian government cell itself has stated," the US secretary of state asserted. Other apps which were also banned include UC browser, ShareIT, WeChat, Weibo, Hello among others.

India-China standoff: China's actions confirm true nature of Chinese Communist Party, says US

Calling the ban on Chinese apps a "digital strike", Union Minister Communications Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad on Thursday said India wants peace, but if someone casts an evil eye, the country is capable of giving a befitting reply.

Hailing the "strong" leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, he asserted, if our country has lost 20 soldiers, the toll is double on the Chinese side.

"Now you can hear about only two 'Cs' - Coronaviris and China. We believe in peace and solve problems through discussion, but if somebody casts an evil eye on India, we will give a befitting reply...If our 20 jawans have sacrificed their lives, then the toll is double on the Chinese side.

"You all must have noticed that they have not come out with any figure," Prasad, also the Union electronics and information technology minister, said addressing a virtual rally for the people of Bengal.

Recalling how India had responded after terror attacks in the recent past, Prasad, said, You all must remember how we had retaliated after Uri and Pulwama (terror strikes). When our PM is saying that the sacrifice of our jawans won't go in vain, it has a meaning. Our government has the will to deliver."

Insisting that India carried out a "digital strike" to protect the data of countrymen, Prasad sought to know why the TMC was opposing the ban on Chinese apps.

"We are witnessing a strange trend in Bengal; the ruling TMC had earlier asked why we were not banning the apps, now they want to know why we are banning the apps. This is strange, why can't they stand with the government at the time of crisis," he said.

Trinamool Congress MP Nusrat Jahan had on Wednesday termed the Centre's decision to ban 59 Chinese apps including TikTok an "eyewash and an impulsive decision", and said the Union government should substitute them with Indian apps as the livelihood of many people associated with these applications had been affected.

He also attacked the CPI-M over its "silence" on the Sino-Indian border confrontation.

"I am surprised why the CPI-M has not criticised China. Is it the same CPI-M that it was in 1962?" he said.

Calling the ban on Chinese apps a "digital strike", Union Minister Communications Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad on Thursday said India wants peace, but if someone casts an evil eye, the country is capable of giving a befitting reply.

Calling the ban on Chinese apps a "digital strike", Union Minister Communications Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad on Thursday said India wants peace, but if someone casts an evil eye, the country is capable of giving a befitting reply. Hailing the "strong" leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, he asserted, if our country has lost 20 soldiers, the toll is double on the Chinese side. "Now you can hear about only two 'Cs' - Coronaviris and China. We believe in peace and solve problems through discussion, but if somebody casts an evil eye on India, we will give a befitting reply...If our 20 jawans have sacrificed their lives, then the toll is double on the Chinese side. "You all must have noticed that they have not come out with any figure," Prasad, also the Union electronics and information technology minister, said addressing a virtual rally for the people of Bengal. Recalling how India had responded after terror attacks in the recent past, Prasad, said, You all must remember how we had retaliated after Uri and Pulwama (terror strikes). When our PM is saying that the sacrifice of our jawans won't go in vain, it has a meaning. Our government has the will to deliver." Insisting that India carried out a "digital strike" to protect the data of countrymen, Prasad sought to know why the TMC was opposing the ban on Chinese apps. "We are witnessing a strange trend in Bengal; the ruling TMC had earlier asked why we were not banning the apps, now they want to know why we are banning the apps. This is strange, why can't they stand with the government at the time of crisis," he said. Trinamool Congress MP Nusrat Jahan had on Wednesday termed the Centre's decision to ban 59 Chinese apps including TikTok an "eyewash and an impulsive decision", and said the Union government should substitute them with Indian apps as the livelihood of many people associated with these applications had been affected. He also attacked the CPI-M over its "silence" on the Sino-Indian border confrontation. "I am surprised why the CPI-M has not criticised China. Is it the same CPI-M that it was in 1962?" he said.

Strange trend in Bengal: Ravi Shankar Prasad questions TMC over app ban

The ban imposed on 59 Chinese apps, by the Indian government, is part of a series of sustained responses to build an effective counter to China's provocations.

To contain China, India will have to deploy all three potential retaliatory moves - military, economic and diplomatic.

The boycott of Chinses products has already started in the form of a public campaign. To impose a total boycott, India needs compelling domestic alternatives on price, scale and quality.&nbsp;

India has also amended rules for foreign direct investment (FDI). New Delhi can take it up a notch by placing thresholds on the inflow of Chinese cash.&nbsp; 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-bans-chinese-apps-what-does-the-decision-mean-for-beijing-309734">Also Read:&nbsp;India bans Chinese apps: What does the decision mean for Beijing?</a>

According to experts, India could consider slapping higher tariffs on Chinese goods. A blanket tariff policy would be hard to execute, but specific sectors or products can definitely be targetted.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-here-is-how-india-can-counter-the-dragon-309767/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

India must also consider not withdrawing the travel advisory against China that was issued amid the coronavirus crisis. This would impact Beijing's tourism sector.&nbsp;Similarly, Indian students studying in China could be asked to return.&nbsp;

As part of the military measures, India could invite Australia for the Malabar Naval Exercise. So far, India, the United States and Japan participate in this yearly event and allowing Australia would strengthen the QUAD.&nbsp; 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/chinese-apps-have-been-banned-in-india-is-huawei-next-309732">Also Read: Chinese apps have been banned in India; Is Huawei next?</a>

India could follow this up with a comprehensive maritime response to China’s border aggression. For that, Indian Naval forces could conduct drills around the Andaman and Nicobar islands.&nbsp;

China has been trying to increase its presence in the Indian ocean. Andaman and Nicobar islands allow India to project its military power something that China clearly sees as a threat. &nbsp;

To counter&nbsp;China, India needs to formulate&nbsp;a comprehensive strategy with a combination of military, diplomatic and economic measures.

The ban imposed on 59 Chinese apps, by the Indian government, is part of a series of sustained responses to build an effective counter to China's provocations. To contain China, India will have to deploy all three potential retaliatory moves - military, economic and diplomatic.

The ban imposed on 59 Chinese apps, by the Indian government, is part of a series of sustained responses to build an effective counter to China's provocations. To contain China, India will have to deploy all three potential retaliatory moves - military, economic and diplomatic. The boycott of Chinses products has already started in the form of a public campaign. To impose a total boycott, India needs compelling domestic alternatives on price, scale and quality. India has also amended rules for foreign direct investment (FDI). New Delhi can take it up a notch by placing thresholds on the inflow of Chinese cash. Also Read: India bans Chinese apps: What does the decision mean for Beijing? According to experts, India could consider slapping higher tariffs on Chinese goods. A blanket tariff policy would be hard to execute, but specific sectors or products can definitely be targetted. India must also consider not withdrawing the travel advisory against China that was issued amid the coronavirus crisis. This would impact Beijing's tourism sector. Similarly, Indian students studying in China could be asked to return. As part of the military measures, India could invite Australia for the Malabar Naval Exercise. So far, India, the United States and Japan participate in this yearly event and allowing Australia would strengthen the QUAD. Also Read: Chinese apps have been banned in India; Is Huawei next? India could follow this up with a comprehensive maritime response to China’s border aggression. For that, Indian Naval forces could conduct drills around the Andaman and Nicobar islands. China has been trying to increase its presence in the Indian ocean. Andaman and Nicobar islands allow India to project its military power something that China clearly sees as a threat. To counter China, India needs to formulate a comprehensive strategy with a combination of military, diplomatic and economic measures.

To contain China, India needs a comprehensive strategy

A day after banning 59 Chinese apps, the Indian government on Tuesday&nbsp;directed all internet service providers to block the banned apps under the emergency clause of the IT Act.

The Department of Telecommunications (DoT) has issued the order in two sets -- the first set contains a list of 35 apps and the other 24 apps taking the total to 59.

"The Ministry of Electronics and &amp; Information Technology has issued directions for blocking 24 apps under the emergency clause 69A of the IT Act 2000, in addition to 35 apps for whose blocking instructions have been issued earlier today itself," a DoT order to internet companies said. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-bans-chinese-apps-what-does-the-decision-mean-for-beijing-309734">Also Read: India bans Chinese apps: What does the decision mean for Beijing?</a>

Government has also issued IP addresses which will make Internet service providers to easily block access to the banned Chinese apps.

The Indian government had on Monday banned 59 Chinese apps amid the India-China standoff at Galwan Valley.

Other than TikTok, the apps which were banned included UC Browser, SHAREit, Baidu map, Shein, clash of Kings, DU battery saver, Helo, Likee, YouCam makeup, Mi Community, CM Browsers, Virus Cleaner, Apus Browser and many more. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-bans-59-chinese-apps-including-tiktok-shareit-uc-browser-citing-national-security-309464">Also Read: India bans 59 Chinese apps citing national security</a>

Meanwhile, China's foreign ministry said it was "strongly concerned" over India's ban on Chinese apps.

"China is strongly concerned by the notice served by the Indian government," it said, adding, "the Chinese government always asks Chinese businessmen to abide by international law and regulations in their business cooperation." 
 
(With inputs from PTI)

A day after banning 59 Chinese apps, the Indian government on Tuesday directed all internet service providers to block the banned apps under the emergency clause of the IT Act.

A day after banning 59 Chinese apps, the Indian government on Tuesday directed all internet service providers to block the banned apps under the emergency clause of the IT Act. The Department of Telecommunications (DoT) has issued the order in two sets -- the first set contains a list of 35 apps and the other 24 apps taking the total to 59. "The Ministry of Electronics and & Information Technology has issued directions for blocking 24 apps under the emergency clause 69A of the IT Act 2000, in addition to 35 apps for whose blocking instructions have been issued earlier today itself," a DoT order to internet companies said. Also Read: India bans Chinese apps: What does the decision mean for Beijing? Government has also issued IP addresses which will make Internet service providers to easily block access to the banned Chinese apps. The Indian government had on Monday banned 59 Chinese apps amid the India-China standoff at Galwan Valley. Other than TikTok, the apps which were banned included UC Browser, SHAREit, Baidu map, Shein, clash of Kings, DU battery saver, Helo, Likee, YouCam makeup, Mi Community, CM Browsers, Virus Cleaner, Apus Browser and many more. Also Read: India bans 59 Chinese apps citing national security Meanwhile, China's foreign ministry said it was "strongly concerned" over India's ban on Chinese apps. "China is strongly concerned by the notice served by the Indian government," it said, adding, "the Chinese government always asks Chinese businessmen to abide by international law and regulations in their business cooperation." (With inputs from PTI)

Government asks internet companies to block the banned Chinese apps

Is Tibet the new front in the standoff between India and China? WION's Palki Sharma tells you how China is stepping up its activities in Tibet, and how India can respond.

Gravitas: India-China standoff | Is Tibet the new front?

India-China standoff: Why both sides cannot use military capability along LAC

China's foreign ministry said today it was "strongly concerned" over India's ban on Chinese apps.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/tik-tok-removed-from-apples-app-store-and-google-play-after-govts-ban-309558">Also Read:&nbsp;Tik Tok removed from Apple's App store and Google Play after govt's ban</a>

"We are verifying the development regarding the ban," the Chinese foreign ministry said in a statement.

"China is strongly concerned by the notice served by the Indian government," it said, adding, "the Chinese government always asks Chinese businessmen to abide by international law and regulations in their business cooperation."

"The Indian government has the responsibility to follow the legal rights of international investors including Chinese, the pattern is not in the interest of Indians too," China's foreign ministry spokesman Zhao Lijian said.

Watch:

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/govt-of-india-bans-59-chinese-apps-including-tiktok-shareit-xender-309536/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The Indian government had on Monday&nbsp;banned 59 Chinese apps amid the India-China standoff at Galwan Valley.

"This move will safeguard the interests of crores of Indian mobile and internet users. This decision is a targeted move to ensure safety and sovereignty of Indian cyberspace," India's ministry of electronics and IT had said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/india-officially-bans-chinese-apps-including-tiktok-here-are-the-top-10-309486">In Pics: India officially bans Chinese apps including TikTok - Here are the top 10!</a>

"In view of the emergent nature of threats, we have decided to block 59 apps since in view of the information available they are engaged in activities which is prejudicial to sovereignty and integrity of India, defence of India, the security of the state and public order," the government order said.

The apps which were banned included UC Browser, Tik Tok, SHAREit, Baidu map, Shein, clash of Kings, DU battery saver, Helo, Likee, YouCam makeup, Mi Community, CM Browsers, Virus Cleaner, Apus Browser among others.

Meanwhile, Tik Tok which has a huge following in India said: "TikTok continues to comply with all data privacy and security requirements under Indian law and have not shared any information of our users in India with any foreign government, including the Chinese government."

China's foreign ministry said today it was "strongly concerned" over India's ban on Chinese apps. Also Read: Tik Tok removed from Apple's App store and Google Play after govt's ban "We are verifying the development regarding the ban," the Chinese foreign ministry said in a statement.

China's foreign ministry said today it was "strongly concerned" over India's ban on Chinese apps. Also Read: Tik Tok removed from Apple's App store and Google Play after govt's ban "We are verifying the development regarding the ban," the Chinese foreign ministry said in a statement. "China is strongly concerned by the notice served by the Indian government," it said, adding, "the Chinese government always asks Chinese businessmen to abide by international law and regulations in their business cooperation." "The Indian government has the responsibility to follow the legal rights of international investors including Chinese, the pattern is not in the interest of Indians too," China's foreign ministry spokesman Zhao Lijian said. Watch: The Indian government had on Monday banned 59 Chinese apps amid the India-China standoff at Galwan Valley. "This move will safeguard the interests of crores of Indian mobile and internet users. This decision is a targeted move to ensure safety and sovereignty of Indian cyberspace," India's ministry of electronics and IT had said. In Pics: India officially bans Chinese apps including TikTok - Here are the top 10! "In view of the emergent nature of threats, we have decided to block 59 apps since in view of the information available they are engaged in activities which is prejudicial to sovereignty and integrity of India, defence of India, the security of the state and public order," the government order said. The apps which were banned included UC Browser, Tik Tok, SHAREit, Baidu map, Shein, clash of Kings, DU battery saver, Helo, Likee, YouCam makeup, Mi Community, CM Browsers, Virus Cleaner, Apus Browser among others. Meanwhile, Tik Tok which has a huge following in India said: "TikTok continues to comply with all data privacy and security requirements under Indian law and have not shared any information of our users in India with any foreign government, including the Chinese government."

Strongly concerned over India's ban on Chinese apps: China

India's ministry of external affairs said on Thursday that China has been amassing troops and armaments along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) since early May.

Watch Video:

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-india-china-border-standoff-new-satellite-images-shows-chinese-buildup-308657/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

“At the heart of the matter is that since early May, the Chinese side has been amassing a large contingent of troops and armaments along the LAC,” said MEA spokesperson Anurag Srivastava said, adding,"This is not in accordance with the provisions of our various bilateral agreements, especially the key 1993 Agreement on the Maintenance of Peace and Tranquility along the Line of Actual Control in the India-China Border Areas.”

The MEA added that "the deployment of large body of troops and changes in behaviour has also been aggravated by unjustified and untenable claims. The recent shift in the Chinese position on the Galwan Valley is one example.”

Meanwhile, US secretary of state Mike Pompeo on Thursday said that America will ensure that its forces are positioned appropriately to counter Chinese Army over threat to India and other South Asian countries.

"I spoke this month with EU Foreign Ministers, I got a lot of feedback on China's Communist Party, laid out a series of facts that talked about People's Liberation Army's provocative military actions, including its continued aggression in the South China Sea, deadly border confrontations with India and threats against peaceful neighbours," the US secretary of state&nbsp;said.

Tensions between the two counties have ratcheted up over clashes at Galwan Valley where 20 Indian soldiers were killed last week during a clash with PLA soldiers. China hasn't revealed its side of casualties even as the state-run Global Times reported the Chinese Army also suffered casualties. 
&nbsp;

India's ministry of external affairs said on Thursday that China has been amassing troops and armaments along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) since early May. Watch Video: “At the heart of the matter is that since early May, the Chinese side has been amassing a large contingent of troops and armaments along the LAC,” said MEA spokesperson Anurag Srivastava said, adding,"This is not in accordance with the provisions of our various bilateral agreements, especially the key 1993 Agreement on the Maintenance of Peace and Tranquility along the Line of Actual Control in the India-China Border Areas.

India's ministry of external affairs said on Thursday that China has been amassing troops and armaments along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) since early May. Watch Video: “At the heart of the matter is that since early May, the Chinese side has been amassing a large contingent of troops and armaments along the LAC,” said MEA spokesperson Anurag Srivastava said, adding,"This is not in accordance with the provisions of our various bilateral agreements, especially the key 1993 Agreement on the Maintenance of Peace and Tranquility along the Line of Actual Control in the India-China Border Areas.” The MEA added that "the deployment of large body of troops and changes in behaviour has also been aggravated by unjustified and untenable claims. The recent shift in the Chinese position on the Galwan Valley is one example.” Meanwhile, US secretary of state Mike Pompeo on Thursday said that America will ensure that its forces are positioned appropriately to counter Chinese Army over threat to India and other South Asian countries. "I spoke this month with EU Foreign Ministers, I got a lot of feedback on China's Communist Party, laid out a series of facts that talked about People's Liberation Army's provocative military actions, including its continued aggression in the South China Sea, deadly border confrontations with India and threats against peaceful neighbours," the US secretary of state said. Tensions between the two counties have ratcheted up over clashes at Galwan Valley where 20 Indian soldiers were killed last week during a clash with PLA soldiers. China hasn't revealed its side of casualties even as the state-run Global Times reported the Chinese Army also suffered casualties.

China amassing troops & armaments along LAC since early May: India

In its first term, the NDA government devoted a considerable amount of time to strengthen ties with the neighbourhood. 'Neighbourhood first' became the rallying call and Prime Minister Narendra Modi built up a personal rapport with almost all neighbouring leaders.

Now it appears India's diplomacy is losing to China's influence on other countries. The relations between India and Nepal are on the edge of a precipice after the latter's Upper House passed a bill to update map that includes Indian territories.

Kathmandu's foreign policy towards New Delhi is becoming increasingly politicised.

Nepal's main opposition party Nepali Congress has put in place a motion in the Lower House of the country's parliament over the issue of encroachment of their territory by China.&nbsp;

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<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/edge-of-precipice-nepals-growing-aggression-towards-india-308074">Also Read:&nbsp;Edge of the precipice? Nepal's growing aggression towards India</a>

According to the motion, "64 hectares have been encroached upon in Dolakha, Humla, Sindhupalchowk, Sankhuwasabha, Gorkha and Rasuwa districts" of Nepal by China.

Following the development, the Nepalese foreign ministry issued a clarification on Thursday, saying "The news allegedly based on the report of the ministry of agriculture doesn't exist." "The ministry requests the media to verify the information from the relevant authorities before commenting on such sensitive matters which may adversely affect the relations between the two friendly neighbours.'

Nepal made no such statement when it came to India. Last week, Nepalese forces opened fire on a group of villagers along the Bihar border last week in which an Indian citizen lost his life. The Nepal parliament amended a law making it tougher for Indians married to Nepalese get citizenship. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/india-china-standoff-beijings-expansionism-a-matter-of-global-concern-308619">Also Read: Beijing's expansionism a matter of global concern</a>

Now India’s other neighbour Bhutan has stopped irrigation water for Indian farmers in the Baksa district of Assam. Reports say, over 6,000 farmers from more than 26 villages of this district are dependent on a man-made irrigation channel.&nbsp;

New Delhi's geopolitical challenges are growing - while India says 'neighbourhood first', the neighbours may be saying China first.

In its first term, the NDA government devoted a considerable amount of time to strengthen ties with the neighbourhood. 'Neighbourhood first' became the rallying call and Prime Minister Narendra Modi built up a personal rapport with almost all neighbouring leaders.

In its first term, the NDA government devoted a considerable amount of time to strengthen ties with the neighbourhood. 'Neighbourhood first' became the rallying call and Prime Minister Narendra Modi built up a personal rapport with almost all neighbouring leaders. Now it appears India's diplomacy is losing to China's influence on other countries. The relations between India and Nepal are on the edge of a precipice after the latter's Upper House passed a bill to update map that includes Indian territories. Kathmandu's foreign policy towards New Delhi is becoming increasingly politicised. Nepal's main opposition party Nepali Congress has put in place a motion in the Lower House of the country's parliament over the issue of encroachment of their territory by China. × Also Read: Edge of the precipice? Nepal's growing aggression towards India According to the motion, "64 hectares have been encroached upon in Dolakha, Humla, Sindhupalchowk, Sankhuwasabha, Gorkha and Rasuwa districts" of Nepal by China. Following the development, the Nepalese foreign ministry issued a clarification on Thursday, saying "The news allegedly based on the report of the ministry of agriculture doesn't exist." "The ministry requests the media to verify the information from the relevant authorities before commenting on such sensitive matters which may adversely affect the relations between the two friendly neighbours.' Nepal made no such statement when it came to India. Last week, Nepalese forces opened fire on a group of villagers along the Bihar border last week in which an Indian citizen lost his life. The Nepal parliament amended a law making it tougher for Indians married to Nepalese get citizenship. Also Read: Beijing's expansionism a matter of global concern Now India’s other neighbour Bhutan has stopped irrigation water for Indian farmers in the Baksa district of Assam. Reports say, over 6,000 farmers from more than 26 villages of this district are dependent on a man-made irrigation channel. New Delhi's geopolitical challenges are growing - while India says 'neighbourhood first', the neighbours may be saying China first.

India's diplomacy losing to China's widening influence?

There are millions of people in India who have ardent desire to visit this country for several reasons including historical ones.

Of course, there are some border disputes with India which are not new and can be sorted out with the Narendra Modi government, which would always want peaceful relations with Nepal. The present time is ideal for Nepal to sort out its issues with India. Instead, the Nepal government has chosen the path of confrontation, which is very unfortunate and certainly not in the interest of Nepal.

Today, even as most countries in the world feel concerned about the territorial expansion policies of China.

The enmity&nbsp;that the present government of Nepal has unwisely developed towards India is clearly evident from the series of actions that the Nepal government has taken during the last few weeks. It has unilaterally changed the map, claiming parts of India to belong to Nepal. The Nepal government has blocked the maintenance work in the embankment on Gandak&nbsp;Barrage, by putting up a barricade on its border with India. The Nepal government has declared that Nepalese man marrying a woman from outside the country would mean that the bride will not be recognized by the Nepal government for seven years.&nbsp;

People with an understanding of the ground realities would readily know that Nepal has nothing to gain by spoiling its relationship with India. Are such sane voices in Nepal heard adequately by the Nepalese government?

Considering the strange and quixotic behaviour of the Nepal government, many people think that the present rulers in Nepal are being guided by the Chinese government to pick up friction with India.

That would be the end of Nepal and gradually the country would become another Tibet. No well-wisher of Nepal anywhere in the world would like this to happen.

Nepal is a beautiful country with people known for several special and laudable attributes. It would be tragic if Nepal would go the Tibet way.

By their short-sighted approach, the present rulers in Nepal are making a historical mistake and one only hopes that they would realize this soon and ensure that further moves towards catastrophe would be checked. 
 
(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

There are millions of people in India who have ardent desire to visit this country for several reasons including historical ones. Of course, there are some border disputes with India which are not new and can be sorted out with the Narendra Modi government, which would always want peaceful relations with Nepal.

There are millions of people in India who have ardent desire to visit this country for several reasons including historical ones. Of course, there are some border disputes with India which are not new and can be sorted out with the Narendra Modi government, which would always want peaceful relations with Nepal. The present time is ideal for Nepal to sort out its issues with India. Instead, the Nepal government has chosen the path of confrontation, which is very unfortunate and certainly not in the interest of Nepal. Today, even as most countries in the world feel concerned about the territorial expansion policies of China. The enmity that the present government of Nepal has unwisely developed towards India is clearly evident from the series of actions that the Nepal government has taken during the last few weeks. It has unilaterally changed the map, claiming parts of India to belong to Nepal. The Nepal government has blocked the maintenance work in the embankment on Gandak Barrage, by putting up a barricade on its border with India. The Nepal government has declared that Nepalese man marrying a woman from outside the country would mean that the bride will not be recognized by the Nepal government for seven years. People with an understanding of the ground realities would readily know that Nepal has nothing to gain by spoiling its relationship with India. Are such sane voices in Nepal heard adequately by the Nepalese government? Considering the strange and quixotic behaviour of the Nepal government, many people think that the present rulers in Nepal are being guided by the Chinese government to pick up friction with India. That would be the end of Nepal and gradually the country would become another Tibet. No well-wisher of Nepal anywhere in the world would like this to happen. Nepal is a beautiful country with people known for several special and laudable attributes. It would be tragic if Nepal would go the Tibet way. By their short-sighted approach, the present rulers in Nepal are making a historical mistake and one only hopes that they would realize this soon and ensure that further moves towards catastrophe would be checked. (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Is Nepal going the Tibet way?

The adventurism of China in Ladakh and a few other places along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) and the&nbsp;standoff between Chinese and Indian Forces have&nbsp;once again highlighted the complexity of the border issue between the two countries.

The fact that 22 rounds of special representative-level talks have taken place between India and China in the last 30 years,&nbsp;and the resolution of the border issue is nowhere in sight, speaks of the magnanimity of the problem. LAC, irrespective of differing perceptions, continues to be a compromise formula,&nbsp;which has its own pitfalls in bringing peace and tranquillity, because perceptions can be repeatedly stretched beyond limits&nbsp;if the intentions change, as has been the case with Chinese so many times. The idea of managing peace and tranquillity through agreements and&nbsp;Confidence-building measures (CBMs) has not been found effective enough.

Defining the Complexity of China-India Border Issue &nbsp;&nbsp;

People's Republic of China refused to ratify the Simla Agreement of 1914, signed between British India and Tibet. The Indian stance generally follows Johnson Line (1865) in Ladakh and McMahon Line in East. When Maharaja Hari Singh signed Instrument of Accession, Aksai Chin was part of it; hence, it rightfully belonged to India. India should have compelled China to accept the Shimla Agreement before recognising Tibet as part of Beijing. There is, therefore, no mutually agreed border treaty between Independent India and PRC. China can never be trusted, and hence, India can also have a relook at old treaties/recognitions with China. &nbsp;

It is often mentioned that China has resolved its border dispute with several other countries, however, Chinese argue that it was done on give and take principle. India and China interpret history as it suits them, which is unlikely to change easily. Expecting India to give Tawang or China to give back Akshai Chin is unlikely to be accepted by domestic constituencies on both sides. It is for this reason that every time when the talks start on border resolution, it invariably ends with additional measures for the management of undefined, LAC. &nbsp;

Why is Graceful Disengagement along the LAC Difficult?&nbsp;

LAC, by definition, indicates loosely demarcated areas under the actual control of Chinese and Indian Forces. The term was used by Zhou Enlai in his note to Indian PM Jawaharlal Nehru in 1959, followed by respective positions in 1960 and post 1962 conflict, with some unheld areas in between, and later used for negotiations since 1993, with a provision that it does not impact respective positions adopted by both countries on unresolved Border Issue. Both countries have their own perception of LAC and in certain areas these perception overlap. As LAC is not demarcated, Chinese, with scant regards to international agreements and obligations, use non-demarcation as an opportunity to pursue their ‘Strategy of Incremental Encroachment’ by laying fresh claims (Galwan Valley) and following it up with troops buildup/infrastructure development till resisted and stop just short of conflict. An opposing build-up by Indian Forces leads to ‘Standoff' each time.&nbsp;

The problem in the resolution of standoff is that a graceful retreat becomes extremely difficult due to rising sentiments/ nationalism in respective countries and media glare, thus increasing the political cost of any compromise by either side. Galwan/Pangong Tso is neither the first nor the last standoff between the two countries as&nbsp;the demarcation of LAC is doable, provided both sides “Agree to Agree”. Chinese, however, continue to drag their feet in doing so, as they fear that it will become de facto border, forcing them to forego their claims made in 1959, including Tawang and take away an opportunity to needle India, whenever it has any major divergence in strategic interests. Having developed their infrastructure up to LAC earlier than India, China does not want to let go of this comparative strategic advantage by denying similar infrastructure development by India. &nbsp;

In my opinion, the delimitation and demarcation of LAC will happen only, when the political/strategic cost of not doing so will increase for China. It could happen when China faces insurmountable military pressure on South-Eastern seaboard from a group of countries, in response to Chinese adventurism in Indo-Pacific. China, having recovered early from COVID-19, has unfairly used it as an opportunity to make quick gains in claimed areas amidst pandemic and unfair profiteering from ‘Health Silk Road’ igniting global anger. Chinese aggressiveness in South and East China Sea, blocking of global sea-lane of communication and freedom of flights, coupled with a declaration of independence by Taiwan can create such conditions, along with economic decoupling, resulting in internal dissent in the mainland, Hong Kong, and heightened rivalry with the US with accidental triggers. &nbsp;

China, on its part, will try to stop its adventurism just short of war, in consonance with Sun Tzu’s principle of ‘winning without fighting’. India will have to walk an extra mile in Indo-Pacific engagements like QUAD, and target all vulnerabilities of China, in coordination with&nbsp;like-minded countries. Till then China and India will continue with a tug of war along the&nbsp;LAC.&nbsp;

&nbsp;(This article was originally published on The Conversation. Read the original article) &nbsp;

The adventurism of China in Ladakh and a few other places along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) and the standoff between Chinese and Indian Forces have once again highlighted the complexity of the border issue between the two countries.

The adventurism of China in Ladakh and a few other places along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) and the standoff between Chinese and Indian Forces have once again highlighted the complexity of the border issue between the two countries. The fact that 22 rounds of special representative-level talks have taken place between India and China in the last 30 years, and the resolution of the border issue is nowhere in sight, speaks of the magnanimity of the problem. LAC, irrespective of differing perceptions, continues to be a compromise formula, which has its own pitfalls in bringing peace and tranquillity, because perceptions can be repeatedly stretched beyond limits if the intentions change, as has been the case with Chinese so many times. The idea of managing peace and tranquillity through agreements and Confidence-building measures (CBMs) has not been found effective enough. Defining the Complexity of China-India Border Issue People's Republic of China refused to ratify the Simla Agreement of 1914, signed between British India and Tibet. The Indian stance generally follows Johnson Line (1865) in Ladakh and McMahon Line in East. When Maharaja Hari Singh signed Instrument of Accession, Aksai Chin was part of it; hence, it rightfully belonged to India. India should have compelled China to accept the Shimla Agreement before recognising Tibet as part of Beijing. There is, therefore, no mutually agreed border treaty between Independent India and PRC. China can never be trusted, and hence, India can also have a relook at old treaties/recognitions with China. It is often mentioned that China has resolved its border dispute with several other countries, however, Chinese argue that it was done on give and take principle. India and China interpret history as it suits them, which is unlikely to change easily. Expecting India to give Tawang or China to give back Akshai Chin is unlikely to be accepted by domestic constituencies on both sides. It is for this reason that every time when the talks start on border resolution, it invariably ends with additional measures for the management of undefined, LAC. Why is Graceful Disengagement along the LAC Difficult? LAC, by definition, indicates loosely demarcated areas under the actual control of Chinese and Indian Forces. The term was used by Zhou Enlai in his note to Indian PM Jawaharlal Nehru in 1959, followed by respective positions in 1960 and post 1962 conflict, with some unheld areas in between, and later used for negotiations since 1993, with a provision that it does not impact respective positions adopted by both countries on unresolved Border Issue. Both countries have their own perception of LAC and in certain areas these perception overlap. As LAC is not demarcated, Chinese, with scant regards to international agreements and obligations, use non-demarcation as an opportunity to pursue their ‘Strategy of Incremental Encroachment’ by laying fresh claims (Galwan Valley) and following it up with troops buildup/infrastructure development till resisted and stop just short of conflict. An opposing build-up by Indian Forces leads to ‘Standoff' each time. The problem in the resolution of standoff is that a graceful retreat becomes extremely difficult due to rising sentiments/ nationalism in respective countries and media glare, thus increasing the political cost of any compromise by either side. Galwan/Pangong Tso is neither the first nor the last standoff between the two countries as the demarcation of LAC is doable, provided both sides “Agree to Agree”. Chinese, however, continue to drag their feet in doing so, as they fear that it will become de facto border, forcing them to forego their claims made in 1959, including Tawang and take away an opportunity to needle India, whenever it has any major divergence in strategic interests. Having developed their infrastructure up to LAC earlier than India, China does not want to let go of this comparative strategic advantage by denying similar infrastructure development by India. In my opinion, the delimitation and demarcation of LAC will happen only, when the political/strategic cost of not doing so will increase for China. It could happen when China faces insurmountable military pressure on South-Eastern seaboard from a group of countries, in response to Chinese adventurism in Indo-Pacific. China, having recovered early from COVID-19, has unfairly used it as an opportunity to make quick gains in claimed areas amidst pandemic and unfair profiteering from ‘Health Silk Road’ igniting global anger. Chinese aggressiveness in South and East China Sea, blocking of global sea-lane of communication and freedom of flights, coupled with a declaration of independence by Taiwan can create such conditions, along with economic decoupling, resulting in internal dissent in the mainland, Hong Kong, and heightened rivalry with the US with accidental triggers. China, on its part, will try to stop its adventurism just short of war, in consonance with Sun Tzu’s principle of ‘winning without fighting’. India will have to walk an extra mile in Indo-Pacific engagements like QUAD, and target all vulnerabilities of China, in coordination with like-minded countries. Till then China and India will continue with a tug of war along the LAC. (This article was originally published on The Conversation. Read the original article)

Why the resolution of border dispute between China and India is complicated?

US-based space technology company Maxa Technologies has published satellite images that show road construction and Chinese Military resources at the disputed border area between India and China. Watch report.

India-China standoff: US space firm releases photographs of LAC and patrol point 14

The disengagement agreed upon between India and China on how to resolve the stand-off at three&nbsp;points in East Ladakh has begun on Wednesday by the withdrawal of Chinese troops from Indian territory.

The&nbsp;flashpoints to be discussed include Galwan valley's Patrol point 14, 15 and 17A, Hot springs and Pangong Tso, Finger 4. &nbsp;Sources told that Chinese troops have gone back 500 metres in all the 3 flashpoint areas.&nbsp;

Patrol Point 14 in Galwan which saw the India China clashes on June 15, the Chinese troops have been seen moving back to their rear position up to 20 km on the Chinese side of LAC.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/new-satellite-images-show-chinese-military-build-up-and-activity-along-galwan-valley-308225" hreflang="en">New satellite images show Chinese military build-up and activity along Galwan valley</a>

Sources told WION, the Indian side is cautiously observing&nbsp;Chinese moves and the situation will be verified on the ground over a period of time.&nbsp;

Following the marathon 11 hours talks between Indian and Chinese forces on Monday, both have arrived at a "mutual consensus" on disengagement. Corps Commander level talks on Monday at Moldo was to chalk out the differences on the ground in the aftermath of 15 June face-off, that saw casualties on both sides.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/amid-talks-with-india-china-once-again-claims-sovereignty-over-galwan-valley-308192" hreflang="en">Amid talks with India, China again claims 'sovereignty over Galwan Valley'</a>

During the meeting, modalities for disengagement from all friction areas in Eastern Ladakh were discussed and it will be taken forward by both the sides.

On&nbsp;June 1 also both forces of both countries meeting and arriving at disengagement consensus. While some disengagement did happen, the 15th June violent faceoff in galwan happened after the Chinese side "sought to erect structures just across the LAC" and "unilaterally attempted to change the status quo there", India had said. The face-off saw casualties on both sides. &nbsp;Since June 1, both sides have had around 8 rounds of military talks to defuse the situation.&nbsp;

Since early May 2020, the Chinese side has been hindering India's normal patrolling pattern the LAC area in Ladakh. In Mid-May, the Chinese side attempted to transgress the LAC in other areas of the Western Sector of the India-China border areas and this was met with an appropriate response by Indian forces.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

The disengagement agreed upon between India and China on how to resolve the stand-off at three points in East Ladakh has begun on Wednesday by the withdrawal of Chinese troops from Indian territory.

The disengagement agreed upon between India and China on how to resolve the stand-off at three points in East Ladakh has begun on Wednesday by the withdrawal of Chinese troops from Indian territory. The flashpoints to be discussed include Galwan valley's Patrol point 14, 15 and 17A, Hot springs and Pangong Tso, Finger 4. Sources told that Chinese troops have gone back 500 metres in all the 3 flashpoint areas. Patrol Point 14 in Galwan which saw the India China clashes on June 15, the Chinese troops have been seen moving back to their rear position up to 20 km on the Chinese side of LAC. Also read: New satellite images show Chinese military build-up and activity along Galwan valley Sources told WION, the Indian side is cautiously observing Chinese moves and the situation will be verified on the ground over a period of time. Following the marathon 11 hours talks between Indian and Chinese forces on Monday, both have arrived at a "mutual consensus" on disengagement. Corps Commander level talks on Monday at Moldo was to chalk out the differences on the ground in the aftermath of 15 June face-off, that saw casualties on both sides. Also read: Amid talks with India, China again claims 'sovereignty over Galwan Valley' During the meeting, modalities for disengagement from all friction areas in Eastern Ladakh were discussed and it will be taken forward by both the sides. On June 1 also both forces of both countries meeting and arriving at disengagement consensus. While some disengagement did happen, the 15th June violent faceoff in galwan happened after the Chinese side "sought to erect structures just across the LAC" and "unilaterally attempted to change the status quo there", India had said. The face-off saw casualties on both sides. Since June 1, both sides have had around 8 rounds of military talks to defuse the situation. Since early May 2020, the Chinese side has been hindering India's normal patrolling pattern the LAC area in Ladakh. In Mid-May, the Chinese side attempted to transgress the LAC in other areas of the Western Sector of the India-China border areas and this was met with an appropriate response by Indian forces.

India-China standoff: Disengagement begins at LAC's three flash points

As India and China secretary-level talks began on Wednesday amid tensions along the Line of Control(LAC), China once again claimed sovereignty over Galwan Valley.

Watch Video:

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The Chinese foreign ministry said "China has sovereignty over Galwan Valley", as the country's defence ministry said the border clash between China and India was caused by the Indian side.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-china-to-hold-diplomatic-talks-today-amid-tensions-along-lac-308120">Also Read:&nbsp;&nbsp;India, China to hold diplomatic talks today amid tensions along LAC</a>

"The Indian actions violated a consensus between the two countries and were a unilateral provocation," the Chinese ministry said on its social media account, news wire Reuters said.

Meanwhile, Indian and Chinese officials began diplomatic talks a week after clashes at Galway Valley between troops of both sides led to the death of 20 Indian soldiers. It is the second diplomatic level talks this month after the first took place on June 5.

The meeting is being conducted through a video link with the Indian side led by &nbsp;Naveen Srivastava, joint secretary(East Asia) and Wu Jianghao, director-general in the Chinese ministry of foreign affairs.&nbsp;

As talks began, Indian Army chief&nbsp;MM Naravane met Indian troops at a forward base in eastern Ladakh to review the situation on the ground along the LAC.

The Army chief gave "commendation cards" to soldiers who had exhibited exceptional devotion to duty during his visit.

As India and China secretary-level talks began on Wednesday amid tensions along the Line of Control(LAC), China once again claimed sovereignty over Galwan Valley.

As India and China secretary-level talks began on Wednesday amid tensions along the Line of Control(LAC), China once again claimed sovereignty over Galwan Valley. Watch Video: The Chinese foreign ministry said "China has sovereignty over Galwan Valley", as the country's defence ministry said the border clash between China and India was caused by the Indian side. Also Read: India, China to hold diplomatic talks today amid tensions along LAC "The Indian actions violated a consensus between the two countries and were a unilateral provocation," the Chinese ministry said on its social media account, news wire Reuters said. Meanwhile, Indian and Chinese officials began diplomatic talks a week after clashes at Galway Valley between troops of both sides led to the death of 20 Indian soldiers. It is the second diplomatic level talks this month after the first took place on June 5. The meeting is being conducted through a video link with the Indian side led by Naveen Srivastava, joint secretary(East Asia) and Wu Jianghao, director-general in the Chinese ministry of foreign affairs. As talks began, Indian Army chief MM Naravane met Indian troops at a forward base in eastern Ladakh to review the situation on the ground along the LAC. The Army chief gave "commendation cards" to soldiers who had exhibited exceptional devotion to duty during his visit.

Amid talks with India, China once again claims 'sovereignty over Galwan Valley'

India's External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar is all set for a virtual meeting today with a Chinese counterpart at the RIC trilateral. Meanwhile, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh is in Moscow. Watch report.

India-China standoff: Russia to chair virtual summit today, S. Jaishankar to attend virtual RIC meet

Indian and Chinese militaries are holding a second round of senior military-level talks on Monday in an attempt to lower the temperature following the violent clashes in Galwan Valley last week in which 20 Army personnel were killed in action.

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The Indian delegation at the talks is being led by 14 Corps Commander Lt Gen Harinder Singh while the Chinese side was to be headed by&nbsp;Major General Lin Liu, the commander of the South Xinjiang Military District,&nbsp;

Meanwhile, the Indian Army Chief, General MM Naravane, is expected to visit Ladakh soon to review the security arrangements.

Amidst the continuing standoff between the Indian Army and China''s PLA, the Centre on Monday reviewed ongoing road projects along the Sino-Indian border, and decided to expedite work on 32 of them. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/tibetan-govt-in-exile-warns-of-chinese-expansionist-policy-in-the-region-says-beijing-buying-elites-in-nepal-307694">Also Read: Tibetan govt in exile warns of Chinese expansionist policy in the region</a>

The decision was taken at a high-level meeting convened by the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA), and attended by the Central Public Works Department (CPWD), Border Roads Organisation (BRO) and the Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP) among others.

Furthermore, the Central government has granted more financial power to Defence&nbsp;Forces under which they can buy any ammunition or weapon of up to Rs 500 crore without seeking clearances.

The government has also given the Armed Forces "full freedom" to give a "befitting" response to any Chinese misadventure along the 3,500-km de-facto border.

As India makes these moves, China is watching closely and speaking through its state media. "If Indian soldiers use firearms against Chinese soldiers in the future, there will be a different picture in the border areas," quoted&nbsp;the Global Times. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/not-bats-but-batman-indian-army-takes-dig-at-china-in-post-saluting-martyrs-307615">Also Read: 'Not bats, but batman': Indian Army takes dig at China in post saluting martyrs</a>

In the past, India never took pre-emptive measures and only offered localised resistance, but New Delhi is changing the game to give its Armed Forces an edge, and this has baffled Beijing.

Experts suggest that India must bolster its border areas in Ladakh, putting together necessary infrastructure the Army would need for any future confrontation with China.

(With inputs from PTI)

Indian and Chinese militaries are holding a second round of senior military-level talks on Monday in an attempt to lower the temperature following the violent clashes in Galwan Valley last week in which 20 Army personnel were killed in action.

Indian and Chinese militaries are holding a second round of senior military-level talks on Monday in an attempt to lower the temperature following the violent clashes in Galwan Valley last week in which 20 Army personnel were killed in action. × The Indian delegation at the talks is being led by 14 Corps Commander Lt Gen Harinder Singh while the Chinese side was to be headed by Major General Lin Liu, the commander of the South Xinjiang Military District, Meanwhile, the Indian Army Chief, General MM Naravane, is expected to visit Ladakh soon to review the security arrangements. Amidst the continuing standoff between the Indian Army and China''s PLA, the Centre on Monday reviewed ongoing road projects along the Sino-Indian border, and decided to expedite work on 32 of them. Also Read: Tibetan govt in exile warns of Chinese expansionist policy in the region The decision was taken at a high-level meeting convened by the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA), and attended by the Central Public Works Department (CPWD), Border Roads Organisation (BRO) and the Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP) among others. Furthermore, the Central government has granted more financial power to Defence Forces under which they can buy any ammunition or weapon of up to Rs 500 crore without seeking clearances. The government has also given the Armed Forces "full freedom" to give a "befitting" response to any Chinese misadventure along the 3,500-km de-facto border. As India makes these moves, China is watching closely and speaking through its state media. "If Indian soldiers use firearms against Chinese soldiers in the future, there will be a different picture in the border areas," quoted the Global Times. Also Read: 'Not bats, but batman': Indian Army takes dig at China in post saluting martyrs In the past, India never took pre-emptive measures and only offered localised resistance, but New Delhi is changing the game to give its Armed Forces an edge, and this has baffled Beijing. Experts suggest that India must bolster its border areas in Ladakh, putting together necessary infrastructure the Army would need for any future confrontation with China. (With inputs from PTI)

Here's how India is responding to China's provocations

In a bid too woo Bangladesh, China has provided a huge trade boost to the country by announcing tariff exemption for 97 per cent of Bangladeshi products effective from July 1.

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The decision has come one month after Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and Chinese President Xi Jinping held a discussion to upgrade their bilateral relations during the Covid-19 pandemic

This move reduces Bangladesh's dependence on India. Bangladesh shares the highest trade deficit with India at over $7 billion dollars. But things may change now because China has lured Dhaka with tariff exemptions in a bid to become its top export destination.

Beijing has said that&nbsp;Bangladesh will get priority if it develops the vaccine. So far, Bangladesh has reported over 115,000 cases that place it among the top-20 worst affected countries in the world. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/heres-how-india-is-responding-to-chinas-provocations-307772">Also Read:&nbsp;Here's how India is responding to China's provocations</a>

Beijing is also helping Bangladesh with its relief work to contain coronavirus spread. 
 
China has also proposed sister-city alliances with six Bangladeshi cities which Beijing wants to use to foster cultural and commercial ties with Bangladesh.

China's geopolitical gameplan for South Asia is in motion - rake up the border conflict during the pandemic to keep India busy and befriend the neighbours.

In a bid too woo Bangladesh, China has provided a huge trade boost to the country by announcing tariff exemption for 97 per cent of Bangladeshi products effective from July 1.

In a bid too woo Bangladesh, China has provided a huge trade boost to the country by announcing tariff exemption for 97 per cent of Bangladeshi products effective from July 1. × The decision has come one month after Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and Chinese President Xi Jinping held a discussion to upgrade their bilateral relations during the Covid-19 pandemic This move reduces Bangladesh's dependence on India. Bangladesh shares the highest trade deficit with India at over $7 billion dollars. But things may change now because China has lured Dhaka with tariff exemptions in a bid to become its top export destination. Beijing has said that Bangladesh will get priority if it develops the vaccine. So far, Bangladesh has reported over 115,000 cases that place it among the top-20 worst affected countries in the world. Also Read: Here's how India is responding to China's provocations Beijing is also helping Bangladesh with its relief work to contain coronavirus spread. China has also proposed sister-city alliances with six Bangladeshi cities which Beijing wants to use to foster cultural and commercial ties with Bangladesh. China's geopolitical gameplan for South Asia is in motion - rake up the border conflict during the pandemic to keep India busy and befriend the neighbours.

Amid standoff with India, China tries to woo Bangladesh

The Line of Actual Control (LAC) is a 3,500 km long loose demarcation line that separates Indian-controlled territory from Chinese-controlled territory in the India-China border area.

It subsequently referred to the line formed after the 1962 Sino-Indian War and is part of the Sino-Indian border dispute.

Over the years, there have been tensions at several points along this line of actual control. The June 15 skirmish was in Ladakh's Galwan valley.

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Experts say -- it was the lack of a clear demarcation that allowed the Chinese to change its status quo. The Pangong Tso provides a classic example of this loophole.

Pangong Lake is located 13,900 feet above sea level. The line of actual control does not run through the land in this region.

It runs through the Pangong Lake and lake is 134 kilometers long. 
2/3d of it is controlled by China. The mountains jut into the lake at eight different points.

These points are known as fingers, India claims that its territory goes up to finger 8. This is what India views as the line of actual control, Indian troops have been patrolling till this area — that is till finger 8 — for years now.

India has a post between finger 3 and finger 4.It is manned by the Indo Tibetan border police.

The Chinese follow a different lac, their line of actual control crosses the finger 2 and finger 3 points.

The PLA has posts and bases at finger 8. This was the status quo. China has unilaterally changed it.

In the last two months, China has occupied the land between finger 4 and finger 8.

It is an 8-km-long stretch, the PLA has set up bunkers, they have also built trenches, and boatsheds.

If satellite images are to be believed-- then China has built 500 structures in an area that does not belong to them and more structures are under construction.

The PLA has also blocked all Indian patrols beyond finger 4.The Chinese have changed the status quo.

And changed it unilaterally, and that is the crux of the problem. China does not want to clearly define the LAC and china has prevented all efforts to do so.

There have been multiple rounds of talks but Beijing doesn't want to define the border and keep grabbing land on the sly.

The Line of Actual Control (LAC) is a 3,500 km long loose demarcation line that separates Indian-controlled territory from Chinese-controlled territory in the India-China border area.

The Line of Actual Control (LAC) is a 3,500 km long loose demarcation line that separates Indian-controlled territory from Chinese-controlled territory in the India-China border area. It subsequently referred to the line formed after the 1962 Sino-Indian War and is part of the Sino-Indian border dispute. Over the years, there have been tensions at several points along this line of actual control. The June 15 skirmish was in Ladakh's Galwan valley. × Experts say -- it was the lack of a clear demarcation that allowed the Chinese to change its status quo. The Pangong Tso provides a classic example of this loophole. Pangong Lake is located 13,900 feet above sea level. The line of actual control does not run through the land in this region. It runs through the Pangong Lake and lake is 134 kilometers long. 2/3d of it is controlled by China. The mountains jut into the lake at eight different points. These points are known as fingers, India claims that its territory goes up to finger 8. This is what India views as the line of actual control, Indian troops have been patrolling till this area — that is till finger 8 — for years now. India has a post between finger 3 and finger 4.It is manned by the Indo Tibetan border police. The Chinese follow a different lac, their line of actual control crosses the finger 2 and finger 3 points. The PLA has posts and bases at finger 8. This was the status quo. China has unilaterally changed it. In the last two months, China has occupied the land between finger 4 and finger 8. It is an 8-km-long stretch, the PLA has set up bunkers, they have also built trenches, and boatsheds. If satellite images are to be believed-- then China has built 500 structures in an area that does not belong to them and more structures are under construction. The PLA has also blocked all Indian patrols beyond finger 4.The Chinese have changed the status quo. And changed it unilaterally, and that is the crux of the problem. China does not want to clearly define the LAC and china has prevented all efforts to do so. There have been multiple rounds of talks but Beijing doesn't want to define the border and keep grabbing land on the sly.

India-China standoff: Land grab is a classic Beijing transgression and biggest test for New Delhi

Why India-China are in a standoff for over a month now? Watch this report to know what is at stake for both countries.

Indo-China conflict: Why India-China are in a standoff?

Whether the government of India would admit or not, it is crystal clear that India is facing a war-like situation with China today.

The most important thing that India needs to do now is to convey a firm impression to the Chinese government that India would not buckle under pressure and military threat. Certainly, this is what many countries in the world, who understand the tactics of China and are concerned about it, expect from India today.&nbsp;

Obviously, India has to confront China on several fronts including trade and economic front. While China has created huge capacities in several industrial and commercial sectors, the fact is that China is excessively dependent on the world market for its industries to operate at the economic capacity utilisation level, &nbsp;by marketing their product internationally. This is the area where China has to be confronted. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/what-should-india-do-now-to-fight-chinas-provocations-306750">Also Read: What should India do now to fight China's provocations?</a>

US President Trump has understood this and that is why he initiated the trade war with China, which is getting silent approval from several countries. Very few countries criticise the US for its trade war moves, which has made the Chinese economy weaker, though not still weak at an alarming level.

It is high time that India too needs to start a trade war with China. While there is a high level of clamour amongst the cross-section of Indians to ban the import of goods and services from China, some “experts” have been stating that the ban on import of goods from China would nearly paralyze the Indian economy too. This view is certainly not based on facts and not based on a clear understanding of the ground realities in India.

In the year 2019, China’s exports to India was $68.3 billion, while India’s exports to China was much lower level at $17.1 billion, largely consisting of minerals and natural products.

Of these above exports by China to India, drugs and drug intermediates constitute around &nbsp;65 per cent of the total import of bulk drugs and intermediates by India from various countries. Most of these import of bulk drugs and drug intermediates are avoidable, as India has enough capacity. For example, the number of units in India has capacities for the production of several drugs such as Ibuprofen, paracetamol metronidazole, and still India import from China leading to underutilisation of capacity in India. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/china-is-learning-the-limitations-of-its-will-to-power-305595">Also Read: China is learning the limitations of its will to power</a>

In the same way, India has adequate installed capacity for several chemicals and even such chemicals are being imported from China. Several examples can be readily pointed out.

India imports around 1 lakh tonne per annum of citric acid from China and India was producing citric acid and then closed its plants due to import dumping from China.

Several Indian units such as Hindustan Antibiotics, Torrent Pharmaceuticals, and others were producing Penicillin G earlier and all of them have closed operations due to import dumping from China and now India is largely importing from China.

Why is this situation? The reason needs to be understood and tackled. 
 
India is importing several pharmaceuticals and chemicals from China, not due to lack of production capacity or technological capability but Indian buyers are tempted by low prices offered by Beijing and also because it provides liberal credit terms of as much as six months to the Indian buyers from the date of Bill of Lading, after the Indian buyer would open irrevocable Letter of Credit.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The fact is that China is a nonmarket economy and several hidden subsidies and support are given by the Chinese government to help the Chinese industries export the products at a low price and there is no transparency in such matters.

What is particularly surprising is that several buyers and traders in India succumb to the temptation of buying products from China due to the low price and liberal credit terms, even if the quality and specification of the Chinese product would be less than that of the product produced in developed countries.

Curbing the import of products from China is now a national necessity to protect India’s interests. There are many non-essential items imported from China such as furniture, bedding, toys, mobile phones, televisions, etc., which India can do without supply from China.&nbsp;

In the case of chemicals, bulk drugs, auto parts etc., the capacity utilisation of Indian industries should be improved and production increased by curbing import from China. There are enough capabilities in India with regard to such products.

Even in the case of the renewable energy sector, solar cells are imported from China in large quantities, while solar cell producers in India are languishing.

The government of India should make the price of Chinese goods in India expensive by imposing safeguard duty to protect the Indian industries and national interest.&nbsp;With such protection, Indian industries will have the opportunity to expand capacities, increase production and optimise production cost, which they are unable to do now as they are unable to operate with confidence due to import dumping from China. &nbsp;

India has to learn from the strategy of US President Trump who has imposed tariffs on Chinese products heavily to curb imports from China. China has tried to retaliate by imposing tariffs on US products. In the process, both the countries have not bothered about the regulations of the World Trade Organisation (WTO).

China is occupying Indian territory and has killed Indian soldiers. In such circumstances, India starting a trade war with China is absolutely appropriate. Even as per the WTO rules, safeguard duty can be imposed on the imported product by any country, if the domestic industry would be adversely impacted.

Certainly, a trade war with India would not destabilise the Chinese economy in a big way, but it would cause concern to China. This would make it clear to China about India’s determination to confront China and would be a trendsetter for several countries in the world who are equally concerned like India about China’s greed, ruthlessness, and territorial expansionist policies. 
 
(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Whether the government of India would admit or not, it is crystal clear that India is facing a war-like situation with China today. The most important thing that India needs to do now is to convey a firm impression to the Chinese government that India would not buckle under pressure and military threat.

Whether the government of India would admit or not, it is crystal clear that India is facing a war-like situation with China today. The most important thing that India needs to do now is to convey a firm impression to the Chinese government that India would not buckle under pressure and military threat. Certainly, this is what many countries in the world, who understand the tactics of China and are concerned about it, expect from India today. Obviously, India has to confront China on several fronts including trade and economic front. While China has created huge capacities in several industrial and commercial sectors, the fact is that China is excessively dependent on the world market for its industries to operate at the economic capacity utilisation level, by marketing their product internationally. This is the area where China has to be confronted. Also Read: What should India do now to fight China's provocations? US President Trump has understood this and that is why he initiated the trade war with China, which is getting silent approval from several countries. Very few countries criticise the US for its trade war moves, which has made the Chinese economy weaker, though not still weak at an alarming level. It is high time that India too needs to start a trade war with China. While there is a high level of clamour amongst the cross-section of Indians to ban the import of goods and services from China, some “experts” have been stating that the ban on import of goods from China would nearly paralyze the Indian economy too. This view is certainly not based on facts and not based on a clear understanding of the ground realities in India. In the year 2019, China’s exports to India was $68.3 billion, while India’s exports to China was much lower level at $17.1 billion, largely consisting of minerals and natural products. Of these above exports by China to India, drugs and drug intermediates constitute around 65 per cent of the total import of bulk drugs and intermediates by India from various countries. Most of these import of bulk drugs and drug intermediates are avoidable, as India has enough capacity. For example, the number of units in India has capacities for the production of several drugs such as Ibuprofen, paracetamol metronidazole, and still India import from China leading to underutilisation of capacity in India. Also Read: China is learning the limitations of its will to power In the same way, India has adequate installed capacity for several chemicals and even such chemicals are being imported from China. Several examples can be readily pointed out. India imports around 1 lakh tonne per annum of citric acid from China and India was producing citric acid and then closed its plants due to import dumping from China. Several Indian units such as Hindustan Antibiotics, Torrent Pharmaceuticals, and others were producing Penicillin G earlier and all of them have closed operations due to import dumping from China and now India is largely importing from China. Why is this situation? The reason needs to be understood and tackled. India is importing several pharmaceuticals and chemicals from China, not due to lack of production capacity or technological capability but Indian buyers are tempted by low prices offered by Beijing and also because it provides liberal credit terms of as much as six months to the Indian buyers from the date of Bill of Lading, after the Indian buyer would open irrevocable Letter of Credit. The fact is that China is a nonmarket economy and several hidden subsidies and support are given by the Chinese government to help the Chinese industries export the products at a low price and there is no transparency in such matters. What is particularly surprising is that several buyers and traders in India succumb to the temptation of buying products from China due to the low price and liberal credit terms, even if the quality and specification of the Chinese product would be less than that of the product produced in developed countries. Curbing the import of products from China is now a national necessity to protect India’s interests. There are many non-essential items imported from China such as furniture, bedding, toys, mobile phones, televisions, etc., which India can do without supply from China. In the case of chemicals, bulk drugs, auto parts etc., the capacity utilisation of Indian industries should be improved and production increased by curbing import from China. There are enough capabilities in India with regard to such products. Even in the case of the renewable energy sector, solar cells are imported from China in large quantities, while solar cell producers in India are languishing. The government of India should make the price of Chinese goods in India expensive by imposing safeguard duty to protect the Indian industries and national interest. With such protection, Indian industries will have the opportunity to expand capacities, increase production and optimise production cost, which they are unable to do now as they are unable to operate with confidence due to import dumping from China. India has to learn from the strategy of US President Trump who has imposed tariffs on Chinese products heavily to curb imports from China. China has tried to retaliate by imposing tariffs on US products. In the process, both the countries have not bothered about the regulations of the World Trade Organisation (WTO). China is occupying Indian territory and has killed Indian soldiers. In such circumstances, India starting a trade war with China is absolutely appropriate. Even as per the WTO rules, safeguard duty can be imposed on the imported product by any country, if the domestic industry would be adversely impacted. Certainly, a trade war with India would not destabilise the Chinese economy in a big way, but it would cause concern to China. This would make it clear to China about India’s determination to confront China and would be a trendsetter for several countries in the world who are equally concerned like India about China’s greed, ruthlessness, and territorial expansionist policies. (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

India's avoidable import dependence on China

China’s recent intrusions in Galwan Valley and Pangong Tso, once again prove that after years of bending over backwards to accommodate or somewhat appease China, India has not yet learned any meaningful lessons about the Chinese strategic mindset. After annexing Tibet, Mao said, Tibet is the palm, and now they must get the five fingers- Ladakh, Nepal, Sikkim, Bhutan, and Arunachal Pradesh. However, India's early leadership was perceptive enough to visualize this and act accordingly by warming up to the five fingers and in Sikkim’s case by integrating it with India in 1975. &nbsp;

Looking Back&nbsp;

In 1954, India and China signed the Panchsheel agreement. With it, also began, India’s implied support to the doctrine of the “One-China” policy. However, CCP’s expansionist designs continued to simmer and manifested in Chinese inroads in Tibet and later in Ladakh and Arunachal Pradesh. The betrayal and debacle of 1962 shattered Nehru, ultimately leading to his demise and sending India into a phase of what this author would prefer to call “strategic depression.” India became inward-looking, insanely skeptical of foreign powers, and obsessed with putting its own house in order. After 1962, China and India went through a long phase of uneasy silence, apart from the clashes of 1967 when the Indian army routed the Chinese in Nathula, killing hundreds of PLA soldiers and the Chinese attack on the Assam Rifles patrol party in 1975 at Tulung La in Arunachal. &nbsp;

The Long era of Appeasement&nbsp;

In 1988, Rajiv Gandhi’s China visit after the Sumdorongchu standoff (1986) ‘broke the ice’ and resumed bilateral ties after three decades. In 1993, PM Narsimha Rao visited China and signed the Border Peace and Tranquility Agreement. &nbsp;

In 1996, China agreed upon a range of CBMs with India in the military field along LAC. Following it was the border trade agreement of 2003 to promote border trade through Nathu La and develop friendly ties. In 2005, India-China signed the Agreement on the Political Parameters and Guiding Principles for the Settlement of the Boundary Question, in 2012, the agreement on border tri-junction (India, China, and Bhutan), and in 2013, the agreement on border defence and cooperation. &nbsp;

India continued with its policy of engaging China and accommodating Chinese concerns in the naïve hope of resolving border disputes, weakening China’s ties with Pakistan, and harness the strengths of civilizational-cultural ties. In 2015, India extended the privilege of electronic visas to Chinese citizens on arriving in India and removed China from the list of the “countries of concern” to attract more Chinese investment. It resulted in massive dumping by Chinese firms doubling the trade surplus to $60 billion per year. In 2018, Delhi refused an official contact with Dalai Lama and Tibet’s India-based government-in-exile. However, Chinese intrusions continued. In 2013, the Chinese made incursions in Depsang valley, indulging in provocative military action. In 2014, during Xi Jinping India-visit, PLA made incursions in Ladakh’s Chumar area and in 2017, in Doklam plateau, resulting in a 73-day long stand-off between the two armies. &nbsp;

Lessons from the Past&nbsp;

After 22 rounds of special-representative level meetings to settle the boundary dispute, the CCP shows no intent to resolve the border dispute. The flare-ups in Doklam, Depsang, Chumar, Ladakh, and intensifying pressure on Nepal and Arunachal Pradesh clearly suggest that CCP is still chasing Mao’s dream of occupying the five fingers. &nbsp;

On the Indian side, it appears that there is a deep-rooted policy ambiguity about China. Whether China is an adversary or a friend continues to remain an unanswered question at the policy level? India’s powerful foreign ministry mandarins have advocated the policy of positive engagement with China, over the last 30 years. India’s dominant left-wing academic and journalistic community, many of whom are now baying for Chinese blood, have consistently held that India and China have an economic interdependence, and India cannot economically grow without China. &nbsp;

The recent skirmishes have once again proved that both groups are living in a fool’s paradise. After decades of written agreements and CBMs, China still encroaches into Indian territory, making a complete mockery of goodwill and appeasement shown by India. In the economic realm also, Delhi’s foreign policy mandarins preferred engaging China either through BRICS or by joining the AIIB (Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank). However, it hardly brought any favorable change in China’s strategic behaviour. &nbsp;The trade, investment, and economic relationship have mostly hovered around India importing cheap consumer goods from China. China has not transferred any technology to India. It has had a detrimental effect on the local innovation and entrepreneurship and increased India’s dependence manifold. Even though India has a trade deficit of $60 billion, it has failed to leverage it on the strategic front.&nbsp;

Over the Chinese side, the strategic thought has been consistent, i.e., to keep the borders vague and make continuous inroads laying sovereign claims to more and more territory. Chinese have deliberately continued with the policy of keeping LAC vague and widening the military and economic gap with India so that it can negotiate on its terms in the future. &nbsp;

It is not hard to discern the pattern of “two-steps forward and one-step backward” in Chinese policy. Moreover, China agreed to a range of things in the bilateral agreements with India; however, they continued to misinterpret them and change the goalposts when it suits them. As recently as 2018, China agreed to Delhi’s offer of an annual informal bilateral summit. However, such goodwill gestures had no impact on China’s intrusions. After the Doklam standoff, China built permanent structures and enhanced its deployments gaining control of most of the barren plateau claimed by India’s ally, Bhutan. Interestingly, China agrees to the bilateral summits and diplomatic engagements because it aligns well with its “engagement with containment” strategy with India. &nbsp;

India has to learn from Tibet’s and its own experience that deception, surprise, and concealment is a fundamental aspect of CCP’s strategic thought, diplomacy, and military policy. The reason lies in the devious expansionist intent, the essence of the CCP’s strategic thought process. It originates from the genesis of CCP, its inherent ideological totalitarianism, deterministic approach, and the revanchist attitude, rooted in historical grudges and frustrations. Also, China’s expansionist intent is not merely India-specific and confined to the political domain. China’s bullying and arm-twisting in the South China Sea, Taiwan, Hong Kong, and Eastern Turkestan also emanates from the same imperial DNA of CCP.&nbsp;

In the economic sphere, China’s torturous loans sending nations into debt-trap, demographic engineering in Gilgit-Baltistan to secure CPEC, violation of environmental norms in African countries, and supporting dictators, oppressors, and human rights violators in Central Asia strengthens its expansionist credentials. On the home front, extreme levels of information control, suppression of religious and cultural minorities, in particular, the treatment meted out to Uighurs in the reeducation camps of Xinjiang and the lunatic mission to homogenize China with Han Chinese population remind one of the fascist regimes of Hitler and Mussolini and the horrors of the holocaust. Perhaps a little digression, but the author believes that if the world powers do not unite against the racist and fascist regime of CCP led by Xi, humanity may witness another holocaust. &nbsp;

Reportedly, the recent Ladakh incursions were planned months ago after India abrogated article 370. Also, it is pertinent to mention that there is a strong likelihood of China-Pakistan working in tandem preceding the recent incursions. During his field visit to Kashmir for a research project on terror financing, the author’s interlocutors informed that PLA cadres and officers were moving with Pakistan’s patrol parties near the LoC. They were assisting the Pak army in installing advanced air defence systems and missiles near the LoC. Also, departing from the past, the PLA officers were meeting the militant commanders of Lashkar and Jaish in the training camps in PoK. China and Pakistan’s intelligence and security establishment has evolved into an intricate and robust network cooperating and collaborating at multiple levels and on multiple fronts. Further, India’s appeasement and meek response to its intrusions ended up whetting China’s voracious appetite for grabbing more territory, instead of placating it. Also, since it feels secure that India is unlikely to retaliate strongly, frequent incursions in India help in whipping up the nationalist sentiment on the home front where CCP faces increasing unpopularity and resentment.&nbsp;

The Road Ahead

As long as CCP continues to exist, China will be India’s adversary, and it would be irrational for India to trust China in the future. Under the Mao’s reincarnate Xi Jinping, CCP has long-term imperial ambitions of world domination, and hence China’s errant behaviour is likely to abate in the future unless India abandons Dalai Lama, accepts a completely subordinate status and act accordingly, willingly surrenders Arunachal and whatever new claims of sovereignty that will float from Beijing, as per their strategic interests. &nbsp;The policy of engagement or a long era of appeasement since 1988, in Brahma Chellaney’s words, has proved to be a Himalayan blunder and a monumental disaster. &nbsp;Now the question arises- what should be India’s future course of action? Certainly, no engagement &nbsp;!! Beyond that, Delhi needs a multi-pronged and a long-term strategy to contain China.&nbsp;

&nbsp;(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

China’s recent intrusions in Galwan Valley and Pangong Tso, once again prove that after years of bending over backwards to accommodate or somewhat appease China, India has not yet learned any meaningful lessons about the Chinese strategic mindset.

China’s recent intrusions in Galwan Valley and Pangong Tso, once again prove that after years of bending over backwards to accommodate or somewhat appease China, India has not yet learned any meaningful lessons about the Chinese strategic mindset. After annexing Tibet, Mao said, Tibet is the palm, and now they must get the five fingers- Ladakh, Nepal, Sikkim, Bhutan, and Arunachal Pradesh. However, India's early leadership was perceptive enough to visualize this and act accordingly by warming up to the five fingers and in Sikkim’s case by integrating it with India in 1975. Looking Back In 1954, India and China signed the Panchsheel agreement. With it, also began, India’s implied support to the doctrine of the “One-China” policy. However, CCP’s expansionist designs continued to simmer and manifested in Chinese inroads in Tibet and later in Ladakh and Arunachal Pradesh. The betrayal and debacle of 1962 shattered Nehru, ultimately leading to his demise and sending India into a phase of what this author would prefer to call “strategic depression.” India became inward-looking, insanely skeptical of foreign powers, and obsessed with putting its own house in order. After 1962, China and India went through a long phase of uneasy silence, apart from the clashes of 1967 when the Indian army routed the Chinese in Nathula, killing hundreds of PLA soldiers and the Chinese attack on the Assam Rifles patrol party in 1975 at Tulung La in Arunachal. The Long era of Appeasement In 1988, Rajiv Gandhi’s China visit after the Sumdorongchu standoff (1986) ‘broke the ice’ and resumed bilateral ties after three decades. In 1993, PM Narsimha Rao visited China and signed the Border Peace and Tranquility Agreement. In 1996, China agreed upon a range of CBMs with India in the military field along LAC. Following it was the border trade agreement of 2003 to promote border trade through Nathu La and develop friendly ties. In 2005, India-China signed the Agreement on the Political Parameters and Guiding Principles for the Settlement of the Boundary Question, in 2012, the agreement on border tri-junction (India, China, and Bhutan), and in 2013, the agreement on border defence and cooperation. India continued with its policy of engaging China and accommodating Chinese concerns in the naïve hope of resolving border disputes, weakening China’s ties with Pakistan, and harness the strengths of civilizational-cultural ties. In 2015, India extended the privilege of electronic visas to Chinese citizens on arriving in India and removed China from the list of the “countries of concern” to attract more Chinese investment. It resulted in massive dumping by Chinese firms doubling the trade surplus to $60 billion per year. In 2018, Delhi refused an official contact with Dalai Lama and Tibet’s India-based government-in-exile. However, Chinese intrusions continued. In 2013, the Chinese made incursions in Depsang valley, indulging in provocative military action. In 2014, during Xi Jinping India-visit, PLA made incursions in Ladakh’s Chumar area and in 2017, in Doklam plateau, resulting in a 73-day long stand-off between the two armies. Lessons from the Past After 22 rounds of special-representative level meetings to settle the boundary dispute, the CCP shows no intent to resolve the border dispute. The flare-ups in Doklam, Depsang, Chumar, Ladakh, and intensifying pressure on Nepal and Arunachal Pradesh clearly suggest that CCP is still chasing Mao’s dream of occupying the five fingers. On the Indian side, it appears that there is a deep-rooted policy ambiguity about China. Whether China is an adversary or a friend continues to remain an unanswered question at the policy level? India’s powerful foreign ministry mandarins have advocated the policy of positive engagement with China, over the last 30 years. India’s dominant left-wing academic and journalistic community, many of whom are now baying for Chinese blood, have consistently held that India and China have an economic interdependence, and India cannot economically grow without China. The recent skirmishes have once again proved that both groups are living in a fool’s paradise. After decades of written agreements and CBMs, China still encroaches into Indian territory, making a complete mockery of goodwill and appeasement shown by India. In the economic realm also, Delhi’s foreign policy mandarins preferred engaging China either through BRICS or by joining the AIIB (Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank). However, it hardly brought any favorable change in China’s strategic behaviour. The trade, investment, and economic relationship have mostly hovered around India importing cheap consumer goods from China. China has not transferred any technology to India. It has had a detrimental effect on the local innovation and entrepreneurship and increased India’s dependence manifold. Even though India has a trade deficit of $60 billion, it has failed to leverage it on the strategic front. Over the Chinese side, the strategic thought has been consistent, i.e., to keep the borders vague and make continuous inroads laying sovereign claims to more and more territory. Chinese have deliberately continued with the policy of keeping LAC vague and widening the military and economic gap with India so that it can negotiate on its terms in the future. It is not hard to discern the pattern of “two-steps forward and one-step backward” in Chinese policy. Moreover, China agreed to a range of things in the bilateral agreements with India; however, they continued to misinterpret them and change the goalposts when it suits them. As recently as 2018, China agreed to Delhi’s offer of an annual informal bilateral summit. However, such goodwill gestures had no impact on China’s intrusions. After the Doklam standoff, China built permanent structures and enhanced its deployments gaining control of most of the barren plateau claimed by India’s ally, Bhutan. Interestingly, China agrees to the bilateral summits and diplomatic engagements because it aligns well with its “engagement with containment” strategy with India. India has to learn from Tibet’s and its own experience that deception, surprise, and concealment is a fundamental aspect of CCP’s strategic thought, diplomacy, and military policy. The reason lies in the devious expansionist intent, the essence of the CCP’s strategic thought process. It originates from the genesis of CCP, its inherent ideological totalitarianism, deterministic approach, and the revanchist attitude, rooted in historical grudges and frustrations. Also, China’s expansionist intent is not merely India-specific and confined to the political domain. China’s bullying and arm-twisting in the South China Sea, Taiwan, Hong Kong, and Eastern Turkestan also emanates from the same imperial DNA of CCP. In the economic sphere, China’s torturous loans sending nations into debt-trap, demographic engineering in Gilgit-Baltistan to secure CPEC, violation of environmental norms in African countries, and supporting dictators, oppressors, and human rights violators in Central Asia strengthens its expansionist credentials. On the home front, extreme levels of information control, suppression of religious and cultural minorities, in particular, the treatment meted out to Uighurs in the reeducation camps of Xinjiang and the lunatic mission to homogenize China with Han Chinese population remind one of the fascist regimes of Hitler and Mussolini and the horrors of the holocaust. Perhaps a little digression, but the author believes that if the world powers do not unite against the racist and fascist regime of CCP led by Xi, humanity may witness another holocaust. Reportedly, the recent Ladakh incursions were planned months ago after India abrogated article 370. Also, it is pertinent to mention that there is a strong likelihood of China-Pakistan working in tandem preceding the recent incursions. During his field visit to Kashmir for a research project on terror financing, the author’s interlocutors informed that PLA cadres and officers were moving with Pakistan’s patrol parties near the LoC. They were assisting the Pak army in installing advanced air defence systems and missiles near the LoC. Also, departing from the past, the PLA officers were meeting the militant commanders of Lashkar and Jaish in the training camps in PoK. China and Pakistan’s intelligence and security establishment has evolved into an intricate and robust network cooperating and collaborating at multiple levels and on multiple fronts. Further, India’s appeasement and meek response to its intrusions ended up whetting China’s voracious appetite for grabbing more territory, instead of placating it. Also, since it feels secure that India is unlikely to retaliate strongly, frequent incursions in India help in whipping up the nationalist sentiment on the home front where CCP faces increasing unpopularity and resentment. The Road Ahead As long as CCP continues to exist, China will be India’s adversary, and it would be irrational for India to trust China in the future. Under the Mao’s reincarnate Xi Jinping, CCP has long-term imperial ambitions of world domination, and hence China’s errant behaviour is likely to abate in the future unless India abandons Dalai Lama, accepts a completely subordinate status and act accordingly, willingly surrenders Arunachal and whatever new claims of sovereignty that will float from Beijing, as per their strategic interests. The policy of engagement or a long era of appeasement since 1988, in Brahma Chellaney’s words, has proved to be a Himalayan blunder and a monumental disaster. Now the question arises- what should be India’s future course of action? Certainly, no engagement !! Beyond that, Delhi needs a multi-pronged and a long-term strategy to contain China. (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Time for an assertive force posture against China

India is fighting two wars against China - one at the border and another against the virus from China, said Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Monday. ''We have to remain united to fight both, none of these should be politicised.

India is fighting two wars against China - one at the border and another against the virus from China, said Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Monday. ''We have to remain united to fight both, none of these should be politicised. Our brave soldiers didn't back down, even we won't retreat until we win,'' he said On COVID-19 testing, he said that there has been a threefold increase in testing. Earlier it was 5,000 tests per day, now it is around 18,000 per day. Now people will not face any issues in getting tested, he added. ''All those under home-isolation will be provided with pulse oximeters to measure your oxygen levels every few hours. Once you are well, you can return it to the government,'' he noted.

'We won't retreat until we win', Kejriwal on India's twin battle

US President Donald Trump on Saturday said that America is in touch with both India and China to help both the countries out of the situation where both the countries have come to blows.

Tensions have simmered between New Delhi and Beijing since 20 Indian Army soldiers were killed in action following violent clashes with Chinese troops at Galwan Valley in eastern Ladakh on June 15.&nbsp;

"It`s a very tough situation. We are talking to India, we`re talking to China. They have got a big problem there. They have come to blows and we`ll see what happens. We are trying to help them out," Trump told reporters outside White House.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/chinese-social-media-sites-delete-pm-modis-speech-mea-spokesmans-remarks-on-border-crisis-307322">Chinese social media sites delete PM Modi's speech, MEA spokesman's remarks on border crisis</a>

Last month Trump said on social media, "We have informed both India and China that the United States is ready, willing and able to mediate or arbitrate their now raging border dispute. Thank you!"

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> It's a very tough situation. We are talking to India, we're talking to China. They have got a big problem there. They have come to blows and we’ll see what happens. We are trying to help them out: US President Donald Trump <a href="https://t.co/auaVnDjFdK">pic.twitter.com/auaVnDjFdK</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1274450261558169600?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 20, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Trump also said that Prime Minister Narendra Modi was "not in a good mood" regarding the "big conflict" with China. However, both India and China turned down the offer and said that they will bilaterally resolve the issue. However, responding to questions on Trump`s offer, Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) spokesperson Anurag Srivastava had then said, "We are engaged with the Chinese side to peacefully resolve this issue."

Last week, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar and his Chinese counterpart Wang Yi had a telephonic conversation. India said that China had attempted to erect a structure on the Indian side. New Delhi also said that Chinese forces took "premeditated and planned" move which resulted in violence and casualties.

Also read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/anti-china-demonstration-held-outside-oppo-factory-in-greater-noida-32-protesters-booked-307353">&nbsp;Anti-China demonstration held outside Oppo factory in Greater Noida, 32 protesters booked</a>

In the past, Trump had offered to mediate between India and Pakistan over Kashmir, but this is the first time he has made such an offer to India and China.

US President Donald Trump on Saturday said that America is in touch with both India and China to help both the countries out of the situation where both the countries have come to blows.

US President Donald Trump on Saturday said that America is in touch with both India and China to help both the countries out of the situation where both the countries have come to blows. Tensions have simmered between New Delhi and Beijing since 20 Indian Army soldiers were killed in action following violent clashes with Chinese troops at Galwan Valley in eastern Ladakh on June 15. "It`s a very tough situation. We are talking to India, we`re talking to China. They have got a big problem there. They have come to blows and we`ll see what happens. We are trying to help them out," Trump told reporters outside White House. Also read: Chinese social media sites delete PM Modi's speech, MEA spokesman's remarks on border crisis Last month Trump said on social media, "We have informed both India and China that the United States is ready, willing and able to mediate or arbitrate their now raging border dispute. Thank you!" #WATCH It's a very tough situation. We are talking to India, we're talking to China. They have got a big problem there. They have come to blows and we’ll see what happens. We are trying to help them out: US President Donald Trump pic.twitter.com/auaVnDjFdK — ANI (@ANI) June 20, 2020 × Trump also said that Prime Minister Narendra Modi was "not in a good mood" regarding the "big conflict" with China. However, both India and China turned down the offer and said that they will bilaterally resolve the issue. However, responding to questions on Trump`s offer, Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) spokesperson Anurag Srivastava had then said, "We are engaged with the Chinese side to peacefully resolve this issue." Last week, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar and his Chinese counterpart Wang Yi had a telephonic conversation. India said that China had attempted to erect a structure on the Indian side. New Delhi also said that Chinese forces took "premeditated and planned" move which resulted in violence and casualties. Also read: Anti-China demonstration held outside Oppo factory in Greater Noida, 32 protesters booked In the past, Trump had offered to mediate between India and Pakistan over Kashmir, but this is the first time he has made such an offer to India and China.

'They have come to blows and we'll see what happens': Trump on India, China standoff

20 parties to attend the all-party meet called by Prime Minister Modi today. Home Minister, Defence Minister and BJP president JP Nadda to also be present in the virtual meet. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh personally called & invited all leaders on behalf of PM yesterday.

India-China standoff: All-party meet to discuss border face off

As India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi gets set to chair the all-party meeting on the situation at the Ladakh border amid clashes with Chinese troops, RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav asked India's defence minister Rajnath Singh&nbsp;and the Indian prime minister on&nbsp;why his party wasn't invited for the meeting.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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Dear <a href="https://twitter.com/DefenceMinIndia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@DefenceMinIndia</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/PMOIndia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@PMOIndia</a>, Just wish to know the criteria for inviting political parties for tomorrow's <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AllPartyMeet?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AllPartyMeet</a> on <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/GalwanValley?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#GalwanValley</a>. I mean the grounds of inclusion/exclusion. Because our party <a href="https://twitter.com/RJDforIndia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@RJDforIndia</a> hasn't received any message so far.
— Tejashwi Yadav (@yadavtejashwi) <a href="https://twitter.com/yadavtejashwi/status/1273674561783910403?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 18, 2020</a></blockquote>
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"Just wish to know the criteria for inviting political parties for the all-party meet on Galwan Valley. I mean the grounds of inclusion/exclusion because our party&nbsp;hasn't received any message so far," Tejashwi Yadav said in a tweet.

In a tweet, Sanjay Singh, AAP leader, also questioned the government saying that AAP has a government in Delhi and is the main opposition in Punjab. But on a vital subject, AAP's views are not needed.

Leaders from more than 15 political parties will be joining the Indian prime minister via video conference at around 5pm later today.

Ahead of the all-party meet, defence minister Rajnath Singh spoke to major party leaders and briefed them on the situation at the border and the standoff with China.

The largest Opposition party, Congress has already offered to stand with the army and the Union government during the&nbsp;crisis.

Other party leaders are also expected to offer support to the prime minister over the issue. It is the first all-party meet called by PM Modi since tensions erupted at the border with China along the LAC&nbsp;in April.

Congress, Shiv Sena, Akali Dal, Trinamool Congress, JDU, DMK, BSP and CPM are among those who have been invited to the meeting.

As India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi gets set to chair the all-party meeting on the situation at the Ladakh border amid clashes with Chinese troops, RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav asked India's defence minister Rajnath Singh and the Indian prime minister on why his party wasn't invited for the meeting.

As India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi gets set to chair the all-party meeting on the situation at the Ladakh border amid clashes with Chinese troops, RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav asked India's defence minister Rajnath Singh and the Indian prime minister on why his party wasn't invited for the meeting. Dear @DefenceMinIndia @PMOIndia, Just wish to know the criteria for inviting political parties for tomorrow's #AllPartyMeet on #GalwanValley. I mean the grounds of inclusion/exclusion. Because our party @RJDforIndia hasn't received any message so far. — Tejashwi Yadav (@yadavtejashwi) June 18, 2020 × "Just wish to know the criteria for inviting political parties for the all-party meet on Galwan Valley. I mean the grounds of inclusion/exclusion because our party hasn't received any message so far," Tejashwi Yadav said in a tweet. In a tweet, Sanjay Singh, AAP leader, also questioned the government saying that AAP has a government in Delhi and is the main opposition in Punjab. But on a vital subject, AAP's views are not needed. Leaders from more than 15 political parties will be joining the Indian prime minister via video conference at around 5pm later today. Ahead of the all-party meet, defence minister Rajnath Singh spoke to major party leaders and briefed them on the situation at the border and the standoff with China. The largest Opposition party, Congress has already offered to stand with the army and the Union government during the crisis. Other party leaders are also expected to offer support to the prime minister over the issue. It is the first all-party meet called by PM Modi since tensions erupted at the border with China along the LAC in April. Congress, Shiv Sena, Akali Dal, Trinamool Congress, JDU, DMK, BSP and CPM are among those who have been invited to the meeting.

RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav, AAP express displeasure over not being invited for PM Modi's all-party meet on China

P.L.A troops have not moved back despite high-level marathon talks between India & China. Meanwhile, Beijing's mouthpiece Global Times is ratcheting up rhetoric with headlines & videos aimed at intimidating New Delhi. Have the talks failed to yield a breakthrough? What exactly is proving to be a roadblock?

Gravitas: India-China border standoff | No sign of de-escalation

China's propaganda megaphone Global Times has released a video that claims to show P.L.A troops preparing for battle. Does Bejing want to overwhelm India into a panic? Why is the P.L.A indulging in such theatrics? WION's Palki Sharma gets you a report on China's 'psychological operations'.

Gravitas: Exposing China's mind games against India

Does the People's Liberation Army really live up to the eulogizing reports by the Chinese State media? WION's Palki Sharma tells you how this army is burdened with organizational problems & riddled with inefficiencies.

Gravitas: 5 weaknesses plaguing the People's Liberation Army

What happens when a recruit decides to quit the People's Liberation Army of China? WION's Palki Sharma tells you 8 punishments the P.L.A inflicts on 'deserters'.

Gravitas: What happens when you quit the P.L.A?

After more than a month, P.L.A troops have moved back from several points in Ladakh. The dragon's retreat marks the beginning of de-escalation at the border. WIN's Palki Sharma tells you how China's threats failed to deter India.

Gravitas: India-China standoff | The dragon retreats