China-Bhutan’s Boundary Talks (EGM): What Does It Mean for India’s Geopolitical Landscape?
Joint Press Release of the 13th Expert Group Meeting (EGM) on the Bhutan-China Boundary Issues
The 13th Expert Group Meeting (EGM) on the Bhutan-China Boundary Issues was concluded in Beijing, China, from August 21st to 24th, 2023. The co-chairpersons of the meeting were H.E. Mr. Letho Tobdhen Tangbi, Secretary of the International Boundaries of Bhutan, and H.E. Mr. Hong Liang, Director-General of the Department of Boundary and Ocean Affairs of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of China.
During this meeting, the two sides engaged in candid, friendly, and constructive discussions, building upon the consensus achieved in the 12th Expert Group Meeting. The discussions revolved around the effective implementation of the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on the Three-Step Road Map for Expediting the Bhutan-China Boundary Negotiations. Both parties concurred on the necessity of expediting and concurrently advancing the implementation of the Three-Step Road Map. A noteworthy development from the 13th EGM was the establishment of the Joint Technical Team on the Delimitation of the Bhutan-China Boundary, which held its inaugural meeting on the sidelines of the event.
Maintaining the positive momentum of frequent Expert Group Meetings, both parties agreed to schedule the 14th Expert Group Meeting on the Bhutan-China Boundary Issues at the earliest convenience. Furthermore, they also committed to communication regarding the scheduling of the 25th Round of Bhutan-China Boundary Talks. The meeting transpired in a cordial and warm atmosphere, underscoring the enduring bonds of friendship and cooperation between Bhutan and China.
Historical Context and Background:
The relationship between the Kingdom of Bhutan and the People’s Republic of China has been characterized by historical, cultural, and religious ties, albeit marked by historical tensions. The countries share a contiguous border spanning 470 kilometers, with territorial disputes that have intermittently posed potential conflict. While Bhutan shares strong cultural, historical, religious, and economic links with Tibet, the relationship grew tense after China’s annexation of Tibet in the 1950s.
Despite Bhutan’s lack of historical subjugation to China, unlike Tibet, the Chinese Communist Party has maintained territorial claims over parts of Bhutan. The situation escalated with China’s increased military presence along the Sino-Bhutanese border following the 17-point agreement between the Tibetan government and the central government of the People’s Republic of China. The influx of Tibetan refugees into Bhutan after the 1959 Tibetan uprising further underscored the strategic importance of securing Bhutan’s border with China.
The Boundary Talks and Recent Developments:
China and Bhutan commenced border negotiations in 1984, driven by the need to resolve territorial disputes and alleviate tensions. Despite the historical complexities, both nations have sought to engage in dialogues to prevent potential conflicts and to create a conducive environment for cooperation.
In recent months, the talks have gained momentum, signaling progress towards a potential resolution. The formation of a Joint Technical Team on the Delimitation of the China-Bhutan Boundary was a significant outcome of the 13th EGM, demonstrating the parties’ commitment to resolving the long-standing issue. Both sides acknowledged the forward movement and agreed to accelerate the pace of the boundary resolution process.
The Doklam Standoff and Trijunction Concerns:
The Doklam plateau, near the India-China-Bhutan trijunction, was the site of a standoff between India and China in 2017. Bhutan’s Prime Minister expressed that the trijunction point’s resolution would involve all three countries and be contingent on India and China resolving their border disputes first. This indicates that while Bhutan is eager to resolve its boundary issues, the larger regional context remains a determining factor.
Implications for India:
The talks between China and Bhutan hold significant implications for India due to the sensitive geopolitical dynamics in the region. Experts in India have raised concerns about potential “swap arrangements” between areas to the North, particularly the Jamparlung and Pasamlung valleys, and the Doklam plateau to the West. The proximity of these regions to India’s strategic “Siliguri Corridor,” which connects northeastern states with the rest of the country, heightens India’s interest in the outcome of these talks.
The Bhutanese Prime Minister’s statements have indicated optimism regarding the demarcation of territories and drawing boundary lines. However, the Bhutan-China boundary talks are distinct from the tri-junction point involving India. This tri-junction point, located near Doklam, involves the interests of all three countries: India, China, and Bhutan. While Bhutan is prepared to engage in discussions on this matter, resolution can only begin once India and China resolve their broader border differences.
Summing up, The 13th Expert Group Meeting between China and Bhutan marks a significant step towards resolving the long-standing boundary issues between the two nations. The establishment of a Joint Technical Team and the commitment to expedite the boundary resolution process underscore the parties’ desire for constructive engagement. However, the impact of these talks on the wider regional dynamics, particularly concerning India’s interests, remains a focal point of attention. As the talks progress, the implications for India’s geopolitical landscape will continue to be monitored closely.
***
