China had announced a three stage plan on Rohingya diplomacy.
What is China’s strategy?
Recently China announced that “as a friend of both Myanmar and Bangladesh, Beijing is willing to keep playing a constructive role for the appropriate handling of the Rakhine State issue”.
It is an attempt to show itself in a new, more positive light in the region.
The “three-stage plan” was described by China on Rohingya diplomacy
A ceasefire on the ground - This is seen as an efficient plan, as people will no longer flee to neighbouring countries.
Talks between Myanmar and Bangladesh - This is to work out the modalities of return of the Rohingya from their camps in Bangladesh to their homes in Rakhine.
Poverty alleviation - As a long-term solution.
Myanmar responded with the plan that it was in line with Myanmar’s own views, and thanked China for its “assistance as a friend in between the eternal neighbours.
What are the implications for India?
Despite its old ties with Myanmar, India struggles to find the right tone in relations with that country.
India missed a right moment to take leadership in a regional crisis due to limited views on the Rohingya.
India has a misguided notion that even a bare mention of the humanitarian problem then unfolding in the Rakhine would anger Myanmar and send it rushing to China.
Now it is clear that India has a long way to go, and a lot to learn from China.
