From October 9 to 14, Chinese President Xi Jinping, decidedly one of the most powerful top two persons in the world with an assured lifelong Presidency in his country, had his diary this way: two days with Pak PM Imran Khan in China, two days with Indian PM in Mamallapuram (India), and two days with Nepali PM Oli in Kathmandu.
And in the process he reiterated Sino-Pak bromance (‘iron friends’), kept India guessing on possibilities ‘in the realm of near future’ and cemented his goal of making Nepal a gateway for China and a showcase of Chinese ‘belt and road project’. Superb diplomacy by the man who speaks just one language, runs China with a single-minded authoritarian doggedness, considers the USA as his only rival, and is determined to leave an authoritarian stamp all across the world and enter every household of the world with Chinese goods which are cheap but good for a limited tenure.
It is almost a post-modern state capitalist imperialism of sorts he aims for whereby Chinese goods dominates the world market; China out-competes all in pricing, cheap labour and technological novelty or replication; and Chinese military power ensures its strategic advantage in all its disputes with some 23 nations in Asia.
Beijing sandwiched Narendra Modi-Xi Jinping’s informal summit between Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan’s yet another tour of China and Xi’s first visit to Nepal. China, at present, has Pakistan practically in its stride and is trying to win over Nepal with huge investments in infrastructure - something that the Himalayan nation lacks. India might not like it but doesn’t have many options, particularly at a time when economic slowdown has tied the hands of the Modi government.
This story is from the November 2019 edition of Eclectic Northeast.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 8,500+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber ? Sign In
This story is from the November 2019 edition of Eclectic Northeast.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 8,500+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber? Sign In
Time For Home Improvement!
Here are some home improvement projects that even absolute beginners will get right
Coping With Anxiety
Here are a few ways that you can deal with anxiety that you may be feeling because of the on-going pandemic
The Spread Continues
According to official reports, African Swine Fever has killed more than 1,700 pigs in Mizoram
Take the Unexplored Path
If you are looking for an underrated destination to explore this year, plan a trip to the charming town of Likabali
The Lotus Blooms Again
The Congress-led grand alliance bites dust in Assam as BJP retains power again in 2021
Painting Heritage
An up-and-coming artist from Nagaland wants to share his culture and heritage through works of art
MUSINGS OF A SOLDIER: TIT-BITS
People often ask me about my life out of uniform. Honestly, I have had no problems. Not so far. Instead, I find it quite refreshing. No routine, no parades, no briefing, no impending operations. Having donned the uniform since the age of thirteen until I hung up my boots last year, could I ever visualize life out of uniform? Not really. But, as I said, the transition has been quite smooth–no hang-overs, no regrets. People have been very positive in their interactions. Government departments have been responsive whenever I have approached for assistance.The genuine respect for the uniform is quite evident and it makes my heart swell with pride. Arunachal, to that extent, is the most nationalistic state in the country, I daresay. It has been kind of a revelation for me to experience the freedom of being a common man in an environment of positivity!
Look Good, Feel Good!
Here are four cruelty-free makeup brands that deserve a spot in your vanity bag
Manipur Introduces Gender Budget
The main objective is to bring forward a gender perspective at all stages of policy making
TAKING DAAKOR BOSON TO THE WORLD
Two artists are using visually appealing artwork to spark conversations about Assam, and the region
