New Delhi: Latest satellite images released by British think tank Chatham House show that China has taken over more territory and constructed settlements along its disputed border with Bhutan amid ongoing talks between the two countries for a border agreement.
These satellite images, taken over the past year, show new Chinese posts along with an extensive road network in the Jakarlung Valley, part of Beyul Khenpajong region in remote Bhutan.
However, as part of the border deal being discussed between Beijing and Thimphu, Bhutan is expected to give up land in both Jakarlung and the Menchuma Valley, making them a permanent part of Chinese territory. This is a crucial development for India, given that Bhutan acts as its buffer state to China.
The regions Bhutan could give up as part of this deal include the Doklam area, which is strategically close to the Siliguri Corridor, connecting mainland India with the Northeastern states. This corridor, also called Chicken’s Neck, is crucial for the country’s security strategies against China.
New Delhi and Beijing have had numerous standoffs along disputed border regions in recent years, including a 73-day military standoff in 2017 over the Doklam Plateau and 2020 clashes in Ladakh.
Last month, Bhutanese Prime Minister Lotay Tshering had observed that both Beijing and Thimphu are moving towards completing the demarcation of the disputed boundary. He also confirmed that a possible exchange agreement, of land in northern Bhutan — presently under Chinese control — with Bhutan’s Doklam region, was among proposals being discussed.
The two countries had held the 25th round of boundary talks in October, during a rare visit by Bhutanese Foreign Affairs and External Trade Minister Tandi Dorji’s to Beijing.
These developments come after China stepped up construction of settlements into the Menchuma Valley in 2015.
Over the past decade, Beijing has been building an expansive network of roads and villages in this region, as a means to push Bhutan to cede this territory. The valley has reportedly been under de facto Chinese control, with Bhutanese herders and Royal Bhutanese Army patrols denied access.
Such a border deal could lead to formal diplomatic ties between Bhutan and China, which may lead to serious concerns for India. India has had great influence over Bhutan’s foreign policy, defence and commerce in the past. The two countries share a ‘special relationship’, with India being one of Bhutan’s largest trade partners. Yet, after the 2007 treaty signed with Bhutan, India no longer had its assertive influence over Thimphu’s foreign policy. As part of the treaty, Bhutan no longer had to take India’s guidance on foreign policy and take New Delhi’s permission over arms imports.
(Edited by Zinnia Ray Chaudhuri)
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