Context: Chinese ambassador warned Bangladesh that there will be “substantial damage” to bilateral relation if it joins the USA backed anti-China coalition “Quad”
Bangladesh’s response:
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Bangladesh categorically replied that Bangladesh is an independent sovereign nation and practices an independent foreign policy.
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In this context, the USA said, it respects Bangladesh sovereignty and the right to make independent foreign policy.
What is the significance of this episode?
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It reveals the fault lines in South Asia and in the Indo-Pacific. It shows that major powers are changing their moves to change the power balance in the Indian Ocean.
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It shows the growing relevance of the Indo-Pacific. “Quad” with all its weaknesses is becoming reality in the Indo-Pacific despite China’s attempt to suppress it.
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It reveals that Quad’s success can be challenging for China strong-arm tactics.
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It is clear China wants to send a clear message to regional states that they should remain away from joining Quad.
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It further signifies that as the relevance of Quad will grow, Chinese aggression in the Indo-Pacific will grow.
What are the major limitations with Quad?
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Firstly, Quad members are not able to figure out any cohesive agenda or any plan of expansions in the region.
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There is no credible platform to work with a like-minded nation such as China’s Belt and Road initiative.
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No countries have shown any interest to join the coalition as China has called it “Asian NATO”.
India and other regional states will have to come up with more clear-cut foreign policy choices to counter China’s aggressive diplomacy.