Indo- China relations since 1991:Areas of Cooperation and Conflict

The Indo-China relationship since 1991 has been marked by a complex mix of cooperation and conflict, shaping regional security and economic dynamics. The normalization of diplomatic ties in the early 1990s paved the way for economic engagement, military confidence-building measures, and cultural exchanges. Bilateral trade has grown significantly, with China becoming one of India's largest trading partners. Strategic dialogues, border agreements, and collaborations in global forums like BRICS and the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) reflect efforts to enhance cooperation. However, persistent tensions over border disputes, including incidents like the Doklam standoff and the Galwan Valley clash, have hindered trust-building. China’s increasing influence in South Asia through initiatives like the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) and the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) has raised concerns in India, leading to strategic countermeasures such as the "Act East" policy and enhanced defense partnerships. The growing economic interdependence between the two nations stands in contrast to their geopolitical rivalry, particularly in the Indo-Pacific region. This dissertation critically examines the evolving Indo-China relationship, analyzing areas of cooperation, sources of conflict, and their implications for regional stability. It explores diplomatic efforts, economic engagements, military confrontations, and strategic counterbalances to assess whether cooperation can outweigh competition in shaping future bilateral relations.