Relations between India and China have been worsening. The two world powers are facing off against each other along their disputed border in the Himalayan region.
Here’s what you need to know in 400 words.
What’s the source of tension?
The root cause is an ill-defined, 3,440km (2,100-mile)-long disputed border.
Rivers, lakes and snowcaps along the frontier mean the line can shift, bringing soldiers face to face at many points, sparking a confrontation.
The two nations are also competing to build infrastructure along the border, which is also known as the Line of Actual Control. India’s construction of a new road to a high-altitude air base is seen as one of the main triggers for a deadly 2020 clash with Chinese troops.
Relations between India and China have been worsening. The two world powers are facing off against each other along their disputed border in the Himalayan region.
Here’s what you need to know in 400 words.
What’s the source of tension?
The root cause is an ill-defined, 3,440km (2,100-mile)-long disputed border.
Rivers, lakes and snowcaps along the frontier mean the line can shift, bringing soldiers face to face at many points, sparking a confrontation.
The two nations are also competing to build infrastructure along the border, which is also known as the Line of Actual Control. India’s construction of a new road to a high-altitude air base is seen as one of the main triggers for a deadly 2020 clash with Chinese troops.
In September 2021, China accused India of firing shots at its troops. India accused China of firing into the air.
If true, it would be the first time in 45 years that shots were fired at the border. A 1996 agreement prohibited the use of guns and explosives near the border.
The same month, both countries agreed to disengage from a disputed western Himalayan border area.
What’s the bigger picture?
The two countries have fought only one war, in 1962, when India suffered a humiliating defeat.
But simmering tensions involve the risk of escalation – and that can be devastating given both sides are established nuclear powers. There would also be economic fallout as China is one of India’s biggest trading partners.
The military stand-off is mirrored by growing political tension, which has strained ties between Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping.
Observers say talks are the only way forward because both countries have much to lose.
