By Kaveesha Fernando
NEW DELHI, India (CWBN)_ India remained the only member of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) to refuse to back China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). Kazakhstan, Kyrgyz Republic, Pakistan, Russia, Tajikistan and Uzbekistan all expressed their support for the move at a joint communiqué issued at the conclusion of the SCO council of heads of government meeting on Monday (Nov 30).
Ironically, the meeting was hosted by India (but was held virtually). Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi did not attend the meeting, which was instead chaired by Indian Vice President Venkaiah Naidu.
The Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) is a vast infrastructure project spearheaded by China. Launched in 2013, the project was inspired by the medieval Silk Road. China hopes to reach over 150 countries across Asia, Africa and Europe through the project.
Critics who oppose the project state that China’s main goal is anything but benevolent, and warn that countries who comply could be entering into a debt trap. India has also opposed the BRI because part of it passes through Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK).
Tensions between India and China have been intensifying over the past couple of months over the region of Ladakh, an Indian territory claimed by China. The hostilities have not been just political – India recently banned 220 apps, most of which are Chinese. The conflict seems to have spilt over into border nations such as Nepal and Bhutan as well, with new land disputes arising as a result of the tussle.
Edited by Elishya Perera
