Learning to work together

A slow and subtle, yet discernable change is taking place in the relations between India and China. Ever since the United States unveiled its "return to Asia" strategy, there has been a perception that the US is trying to mentor India to balance China's power in the region. But conscious of Beijing's sensitivity, New Delhi has tried to judge its relationship with China and the US with circumspection and finesse.

Although such a fine balancing act is easier said than done, New Delhi has been guided by the neutrality that is entrenched in its strategic culture, its rich historical experience and the sagacity of its leaders.

While the world knows that China and India fought a war in 1962, it should also be remembered that the two also fought together against imperialism and colonialism, and that the border between the two, despite the occasional war of words, has been on the whole a tranquil one. However, both countries need to try and promote concrete progress in their border talks, as well as in other spheres of their complex bilateral relations.