The Philippines has joined Malaysia and India in expressing objection to China's updated national map, accusing Beijing of territorial claims. China periodically releases new national maps, citing corrections for "problematic maps" that allegedly misrepresented its borders, CNN reports.
The Philippines rejected the map due to the inclusion of a dashed line encompassing contested areas in the South China Sea, where an international tribunal ruled in favor of Manila in 2016. India raised concerns over the inclusion of Arunachal Pradesh and the disputed Aksai-Chin plateau in Chinese territory. Malaysia also dismissed China's "unilateral claims" and affirmed its position against foreign sovereignty claims.
China responded to these complaints, dismissing them as part of its routine exercise of sovereignty. China's President Xi Jinping has pursued a more assertive foreign policy to elevate China's global influence since taking office in 2012. The map dispute emerged after a meeting between Xi and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, indicating potential progress in border tensions.
However, experts suggest that despite diplomatic efforts, tensions between India and China remain complex and unpredictable. China and India have a history of border disputes, and the 2020 clash in the Galwan Valley escalated tensions. India's opposition Congress party criticized Modi for his handling of the issue and accused China of occupying Indian territory.
Modi has been cautious in addressing the border issue publicly, which has drawn criticism. India has taken measures to counter perceived Chinese threats, including banning Chinese apps and restricting Chinese tech companies. India's concerns over China's assertiveness have strengthened its ties with the United States through initiatives like the Quad, a security dialogue among Japan, the US, India, and Australia.
China boycotted a G20 meeting hosted by India in the disputed region of Jammu and Kashmir earlier this year. The region is claimed by both India and Pakistan.
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