Rationale behind China°s Overtures

China recently invited journalists from a select media network to Beijing, entertained them, and arranged interactions with select officials who parroted the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) line on Indo-China ties.

- HARSHA KAKAR

The network mentioned that its reporters were guests of the 'Chinese embassy in Delhi.' The Chinese intent was to project their demands which they expect New Delhi to meet, to enable further progress in ties. This was psychological warfare, aimed at projecting Chinese views to Indian masses. Why a select network? This media house regularly carries full page Chinese advertisements selling CCP propaganda and publishes opinion pieces by the Chinese ambassador to New Delhi. On the contrary, China Daily or Global Times refuse to carry any article by the Indian Ambassador, or even a clarification statement. The visit was aimed at listing Chinese demands for restoring normalcy in ties to the Indian masses. Chinese authorities attempted to sell the view that the chemistry which existed between PM Modi and Chinese President Xi Iinping prior to Galwan has returned. These officials were quoted as mentioning that the two leaders did not refer to prepared notes during their meeting in Kazan but 'spoke from their hearts.' The Chinese wish list includes, 'direct flights between the two countries, easing of visa curbs on Chinese nationals including diplomats and scholars, lifting bans on mobile apps, letting Chinese journalists come to India and report, allowing more Indian movies in Chinese theatres, among others subjects.' They also reiterated the Chinese government viewpoint that (the border issue has to be resolved at a faster pace. But we don't think that issue should be the centre of the relationship.' China has repeatedly been stating that the border issue should be kept in its place, a view not endorsed by India.