TIT FOR TAT

                                               

Some days back, in this blog, we had discussed how China imposed a binding on foreign flights over an island in the East China Sea. Even though, the island is under the administrative control of Japan, China did not hesitate to show off her arm twisting policy obviously like a big brother. The policy disturbed not only the littoral countries but the super powers as well. Pressure was put on China by the US to see the dangerous implications of this step and reconsider its decision. China known for its obstinate approaches, accordingly declined to retress its move. This has forced the affected countries to go for similar arrangements in their regions to teach a lesson to the dragon.

In this connection, the dea of  Dr Subramanian Swamy, an expert on the Chinese affairs, given on Dec 9, 2013 in an academic lecture in Chennai, appears to be a good reply. He has suggested that If a good port was constructed near Malacca Strait in the Indian Ocean, it would pay China in its own coin. According to Dr Swamy, for this solid step, India will have to take Indonesia in confidence. Both the countries should build this port in between the southern tip of our Andaman & Nicobar Island and Sumatra of Indonesia. It is the vital sea route via which 90% of the Chinese maritime trade passes. Then both the countries may require the ships and planes to declare their freight, flight plan and take necessary prior permission to use the sea and air routes of the region. Once this vital maritime Chinese trade is subject to restriction and adversely affected, she would realize the folly of its East China Sea misadventure.

This bold measure is bound to have more benefits in the international arena for both India and Indochina. Mutual friendship between both the countries will be further strengthened. In case of any pin-pricks from China both  can  face together. Other countries like Japan, Taiwan, and vietnam will also realize the possibility and benefits of such counter measures. On the other hand China will be forced to understand that no country, big or small will keep mum when its territorial integrity is jeopardized. It is hightime for India and Indinesia to think seriously about the feasibility of such a project.