India and China in South Asia: Struggle for Political and Economic Influence in the Region

Abstract

The article analyses India’s and China’s policy in South Asia, as well as key elements of their interaction with the regional states from the perspective of competition between the two Asian giants for regional leadership and influence in the South Asian countries. It is emphasized that nowadays China is pursuing active policy regarding South Asia. China develops trade and investment ties with the countries of the region, military cooperation, infrastructural projects, participates in the peace process in Afghanistan. The article pays particular attention to the recent events caused by the global coronavirus pandemic and the efforts made by India and China in order to fight the consequences of the spread of the disease, restore the broken connections and benefit from the situation for strengthening cooperation with the South Asian countries. It is pointed out that such Chinese activities in South Asia are of serious concern to India, and they are regarded as a threat to the national security. Due to its financial investment to the economies of the regional states, China not only displaces India from the territories of its traditional influence, but also gets various advantages and benefits in these countries, as well as access to strategic resources and assets. India is seeking to revive and strengthen its positions in South Asia, but it is difficult for it to rival with China’s huge economy, and regarding presence in the region and influence on the politics and economy of South Asia, India loses to China by many measures.