Updated Chinese Map Reflects Xi's Influence in Asia

China's recent actions of assigning Mandarin names to Arunachal Pradesh and aligning East Ladakh with rejected 1959 lines on their maps have sparked concerns about Beijing's ambitions to exert dominance over Asia.

This move has drawn protests from countries like India, Malaysia, the Philippines, Taiwan, and Vietnam, who collectively released the 2023 Standard Map in response to China's cartographical expansion.

While Beijing has downplayed the issue, asserting that it's routine practice, a closer examination of the map reveals a more significant agenda. Notably, all locations within co-opted Arunachal Pradesh have been given new Mandarin names, indicating a calculated effort to reshape the region's identity.

China's territorial claims extend beyond its borders, including Taiwan, which has a complex historical background. Taiwan was recognized as a Japanese overseas colony as recently as 1895 under the Treaty of Shimonoseki, and its history involves annexation by the Qing Empire and subsequent foreign interventions.

This territorial claim logic could also extend to Vladivostok, which was handed over to Russia under the Treaty of Aigun with the Qing Dynasty in 1860.

In response to China's persistent cartographical practices, India has lodged a serious protest, making it clear that it won't tolerate future territorial claims through such means. China's attempt to portray the release of the standard map as routine masks its deliberate and planned exercise, signifying its unwavering commitment to asserting territorial claims.

China's aggressive stance is also reflected in its military preparations, particularly in its approach towards Taiwan. However, this poses significant risks, as Taiwan is well-defended and supported by potent American arms supplies. Any military action could lead to PLA losses and damage China's international standing.

In the context of India, while China may attempt to assert territorial claims over Arunachal Pradesh and East Ladakh in the future, India has become more vigilant following the 2020 Galwan Valley clash. The release of the standard map has renewed tensions, especially regarding East Ladakh's inclusion based on a rejected 1959 line. India's protest has also prompted ASEAN countries to react to the issue. This map is not merely routine but a tool of Chinese assertion, reflecting its desire to dominate Asia through questionable territorial claims.

Also Read: Escalating Tensions: China’s Claims on Arunachal and Aksai Chin Prior to G20 Summit

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