Speaking at an event, Jaishankar said, “There is a general China problem, apart from our own difficult situation in the border. We are not the only country in the world which is having a debate about China.Go to Europe, and ask them what is today among your major economic or national security debates? It’s about China. Look at the United States (of America). It’s obsessed with China, and rightly so in many ways. So, the fact is let’s not make out as though it’s only India which has a China problem.”
EAM pointed out that India’s problems with China are particularly significant, extending beyond the shared concerns of the international community. “Decades ago the world decided to overlook problems in China. Now everyone has a problem. India has a special China problem, over and above the world’s China problem. Because there is a general problem, apart from our border situation, the sensible thing to do is take precautions which a country like India should be taking,” Jaishankar said.
On the question of investments coming from China, Jaishankar said, “It has never been the government’s position that we should not be having investments from China or doing business with China. But on the investment issue it is common sense that investments from China would be scrutinised. I think the border, and the state of relations between India and China call for it.”
The minister stressed the importance of carefully examining investments originating from China before granting approval. He noted that even countries without shared borders with China are subjecting Chinese investments to increased scrutiny, although the level of examination may vary.
Jaishankar further said that India should not limit its scrutiny to investments from China alone. He advocated for a balanced approach to investments, recognizing the significance of growth while maintaining a prudent stance.
“A country like India must look at investments coming not just from China. I’m pro investment and pro growth, but somewhere there should be a balance,” said the EAM.
EAM S Jaishankar said this while having a conversation with Pranab Dhal Samanta at the ET World Leaders Forum in Delhi.