Geopolitics and China’s Role in Sri Lanka
An Objective Analysis by P. Soma Palan
COLOMBO, Sri Lanka | 25 November 2023 (IDN) — In today’s world of international politics, the concept of “Geopolitics” has become a prominent and influential term. It refers to the power dynamics and sphere of influence between militarized nations. However, I believe Geopolitics is a dirty word that divides the world based on military might.
Geopolitics has created two explosive formations: the Eastern bloc comprising of Superpowers Russia and China, and the Western bloc consisting of the USA and Europe. Countries with limited military power are caught in the middle, facing the threat of destruction. China’s involvement with the Northern Sri Lankan Tamils is part of this geopolitical game, aimed at countering the power of India in the subcontinent. China’s Belt and Road Initiative, which includes projects like the Hambantota Port and Colombo Port City, is a clear indication of their strategic plan to gain influence in the Indian Ocean.
However, the Northern Tamils cannot be easily won over by China’s attempts to offer relief aid and other incentives. They have deep-rooted connections with their ancestral homeland in Southern India. These ties cannot be traded for material benefits. On the other hand, the majority Sinhala Buddhists in the South West Sri Lanka have only a marginal connection with China. The only common factor between Sri Lanka and China is Buddhism, but China’s religious ideology is primarily Communism.
While there may be some political similarities between China and Sri Lanka, their geographical proximity to India makes India a more natural ally for Sri Lanka. Unlike other regional powers, India has never sought to conquer and dominate other territories. India has a long-standing history of peace and has only ceded territories to others, rather than invading their lands.
The potential disaster of Geopolitics lies in Sri Lanka’s alliance with China, which could lead to embroilment in a Big Power confrontation in the Indian Ocean. This would have devastating consequences for the entire country, including the Northern Tamils. Sri Lanka’s heavy reliance on China’s project loans has already brought the country to the brink of financial bankruptcy.
In conclusion, the concept of Geopolitics and China’s involvement in Sri Lanka must be critically examined. The Northern Tamils cannot be won over by China’s tactics, while aligning with China would be detrimental to Sri Lanka’s interests. Sri Lanka’s strong cultural and geographical connections with India make India a more suitable partner for long-term stability and prosperity.
Ancestral Connections and China’s Influence
The Northern Tamils share deep ancestral connections with their forebears in Southern India. These connections are not easily broken or traded for material gains. China’s attempts to win over the Northern Tamils through relief aid can be seen as more of a bribe than a genuine act of altruism. The Northern Tamils cannot be influenced or swayed by China’s offerings, as their cultural, linguistic, and ethnic ties lie firmly with their ancestral homeland in India.
On the other hand, China’s influence in Sri Lanka is limited to its connection with Buddhism. However, China’s religious ideology is primarily Communism, and its version of Buddhism differs from the Theravada Buddhism practiced in Sri Lanka. China’s proposal to build a large statue of the Buddha in Sri Lanka can be seen as an attempt to buy allegiance and create a symbol of ties between the two countries.
In reality, Buddhism originated in India, and both Sri Lanka and China are recipients of this ancient religion. Sri Lanka’s strong organic ties with India, both culturally and historically, far outweigh any connection with China. It is important to recognize this reality and prioritize alliances that are based on mutual understanding and shared values.
Sri Lanka’s Relationship with China
Sri Lanka’s relationship with China is influenced by a fear of their close neighbors, India and China. Sri Lanka sees China as a protector of its independence, sovereignty, and territorial integrity. China, on the other hand, seeks access to India’s southern front and establishes a tangible presence in the Indian Ocean.
While China may offer certain short-term benefits to Sri Lanka, such as economic investments and infrastructure projects, the long-term consequences could be disastrous. Sri Lanka’s heavy reliance on China’s project loans, coupled with allegations of corruption, has already pushed the country towards financial bankruptcy. Furthermore, aligning with China in a Big Power confrontation in the Indian Ocean would have severe consequences for the entire nation.
Logistically, India is Sri Lanka’s next-door neighbor, making it a more reliable and natural ally. India has a long history of peace and stability, never coveting or conquering others’ territories. Sri Lanka shares stronger cultural, historical, and geographical ties with India, making it a more suitable partner for long-term prosperity.
The Way Forward
In order to ensure stability and prosperity in Sri Lanka, it is crucial to critically evaluate the concept of Geopolitics and China’s role in the country. The Northern Tamils cannot be won over by China’s attempts to offer relief aid, as their ties lie firmly with their ancestral homeland in Southern India. Sri Lanka’s strong cultural and geographical connections with India make India a more reliable partner, with a long-standing history of peace and harmony. It is essential to prioritize alliances that are based on shared values and mutual understanding, rather than short-term benefits that come with potential long-term consequences.
As we navigate the complex world of international politics, it is important to remain objective, free-thinking, and independent. Rather than succumbing to the divisive nature of Geopolitics, we must strive for cooperation, understanding, and peace among nations.
Bibliography:
- Mongols, Persians, Moghuls, the Portuguese and the British brought War into India – Palan, P. Soma.
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Photo source: Colombo Telegraph
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