Books​ Reviews

Kanti Bajpai’s new book provides an in-depth analysis of the complex relationship between India and China over the past 60 years. Against the backdrop of the Galwan clashes in 2020, which has further damaged relations between the two neighbours, Bajpai tries to answer the question of “why they are not friends” through four Ps – “perceptions”, “perimeters”, “partnerships” and “power”. He examines the two countries’ perceptions and prejudices about each other, their continuing disagreements over the border, their changing partnerships with the United States and Russia, and the growing power asymmetry between them.
  
Historically, except for a few brief periods, the relationship between India and China has never been friendly. But the path ahead for them, Bajpai argues, will be a difficult one. The future could witness intensified military confrontations, including violent border clashes. Crucial to their relationship will be India’s inability to reduce the enormous gap with China in economic, military as well as soft power.