China and Bhutan Make Progress on Border Talks: What it Means for the Region

Bhutan-China hold 11th expert group meeting on boundary issues.

The 11th Expert Group Meeting (EGM) on the Bhutan-China boundary issues was held in Kunming city, China from January 10th to 13th, 2023. The Bhutanese delegation led by Dasho Letho Tobdhen Tangbi, Secretary of the International Boundaries of Bhutan, and the Chinese delegation led by H.E. Mr. Hong Liang, Director-General of the Department of Boundary and Ocean Affairs of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of China.

11th Expert group meeting (EGM) on Bhutan-China boundary issues at Kunming, China. Image: mfa.gov.bt

According to a joint press release, the two sides had an in-depth exchange of views on implementing the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) on the Three-Step Roadmap for Expediting the Bhutan-China Boundary Negotiations, and reached a positive consensus. Both sides agreed to simultaneously push forward the implementation of all the steps of the Three-Step Roadmap. The two sides also agreed to increase the frequency of the expert group meetings and to keep contact through diplomatic channels on holding the 25th Round of Bhutan-China boundary talks as soon as possible at mutually convenient dates.

In a show of goodwill, the Chinese government had donated a batch of supplies, and the Bhutanese side expressed appreciation. A brief handover ceremony was held during the meeting.

Border disputes till date.

This is a significant development for Bhutan and the region as a whole. The border disputes between China and Bhutan have been ongoing since 1984, with the two countries holding 11 expert group meetings and 24 rounds of talks over the past four decades. The disputes have largely centered around two areas: Doklam and areas along the western borders of Bhutan near the India-China-Bhutan tri-junction, and the Jakarlung and Pasamlung valleys along Bhutan's northern borders.

Disputed areas between Bhutan and China.

China has recently broadened the scope of the dispute by also bringing up areas along Bhutan's eastern borders in the Sakteng wildlife sanctuary, which borders India's state of Arunachal Pradesh. While the Chinese government's official statement did not mention this, it is speculated that this move is a pressure tactic to push Bhutan to accept China's previous offer of a swap of Doklam in the west for Bhutan to retain its northern territories.

Doklam, in particular, is a sensitive issue for India, as the plateau is located near the Siliguri corridor, a narrow strip of land that connects India's northeastern states to the rest of the country. In 2017, India and China were involved in a long standoff in Doklam, which brought the two countries to the brink of war.

A step forward to Bhutan-China boundary negotiations.

This agreement between China and Bhutan is a positive development for the region and a step towards resolving long-standing border disputes. Both countries have expressed their commitment to resolving the disputes through peaceful means and it is expected that future talks will lead to a mutually acceptable solution.

As the details of the three-step roadmap are not yet public, it remains to be seen what specific measures will be taken to resolve the disputes, but for now, both countries are progressing to a step in the right direction.

It is important to note that Bhutan and China do not have diplomatic relations, and this agreement is seen as a positive step towards resolving the disputes. The Bhutanese government has stated that it will not take any action that would harm the interests of its neighbor and strategic partner, India.

The Chinese and Bhutanese officials have agreed to push forward the three-step roadmap, which has been signed by both countries in October 2021. This move is considered as a fresh impetus to the Boundary Talks. The three-step roadmap will aim to expedite the Bhutan-China boundary negotiations. The Bhutanese government stated that this agreement will not harm India's interests.

China, Bhutan sign MoU on a Three-Step Roadmap for expediting boundary talks. Image: mfa.gov.bt

In conclusion, the agreement between China and Bhutan to move forward on the three-step roadmap for resolving their border disputes is a positive development for the region. The talks have been productive and both sides have expressed their commitment to resolving the disputes through peaceful means. As the details of the three-step roadmap are not yet public, it remains to be seen how the disputes will be resolved, but for now, both countries are taking a step in the right direction.

"What's your take on the recent agreement between China and Bhutan on resolving border disputes?"

• 0%Positive development and step towards resolvement
• 0%Positive step, but unsure of outcome
• 0%Concerned about India's interests (Bhutan neighbor-partner)
• 0%Not informed enough to have an opinion

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