China’s recent presentation of its updated “China’s New Map” has ignited a storm of controversy due to its incorporation of disputed territories, including Arunachal Pradesh, Aksai Chin, Taiwan, and the contentious regions within the South China Sea. The unveiling, occurring on August 28th, has raised diplomatic concerns and resurrected ongoing disputes.
The official China’s New Map, referred to as the 2023 edition, was introduced through the Ministry of Natural Resources’ standard map service website. The map employs a methodology revolving around national borders to portray China’s perspective on global geography, potentially aggravating tensions with neighboring countries.
As stated by the state-run Global Times on X (formerly Twitter), “This map is constructed based on China’s interpretation of national boundaries and those of various countries worldwide.
Of significant note is the inclusion of Arunachal Pradesh and Aksai Chin, both areas that have long been subjects of conflicting claims between China and India. Despite China’s assertions of Arunachal Pradesh as South Tibet, the region has remained an integral part of India. India has consistently reiterated this stance, asserting that Arunachal Pradesh has always been and will remain an inseparable component of the nation, according to reports by PTI.
China’s recent presentation of its updated China’s New Map has ignited a storm of controversy due to its incorporation of disputed territories, including Arunachal Pradesh, Aksai Chin, Taiwan, and the contentious regions within the South China Sea.
The map’s ambit extends beyond India’s borders. China’s insistence on Taiwan as an inherent part of its territory and its ongoing efforts to assimilate the island align with President Xi Jinping’s strategic objectives. This portrayal further inflames tensions between China and Taiwan, a matter of global significance.
Additionally, China’s demarcation includes the contentious nine-dash line, which asserts a considerable portion of the South China Sea as Chinese territory. This move is met with opposition from countries such as Vietnam, the Philippines, Malaysia, Brunei, and Taiwan, all of which have competing claims over the same maritime regions.
China’s New Map : India-China boundary dispute
India and China lack an officially recognized international border. Instead, they share a Line of Actual Control and differing perceptions of the de facto boundary spanning over 3,400 km.
The two nations engaged in conflict in 1962, during which China occupied the Aksai Chin area – historically part of India’s Jammu and Kashmir – and subsequently withdrew from Arunachal Pradesh in the northeast, which China views as belonging to the Tibet region.
