Panchsheel: ‘Five Principles’ of Peaceful Coexistence (GS Paper 2, International Relations)
Introduction
- The Panchsheel principles, or the 'Five Principles of Peaceful Coexistence,' hold a significant place in the history of international relations, particularly between India and China.
- As China commemorates the 70th anniversary of these principles, it is an opportune moment to reflect on their origin, key features, and enduring relevance.
- These principles have not only shaped the bilateral relations between India and China but have also influenced global diplomatic norms.
India-China Relations
- India and China share a complex history of diplomatic relations, marked by territorial disputes, border tensions, and occasional military clashes.
- Both countries established diplomatic relations in 1950, making India the first non-socialist bloc country to do so with the People’s Republic of China.
Five Principles of Peaceful Co-existence (Panchsheel)
- These principles were first formally enunciated in the Agreement on Trade and Intercourse between the Tibet region of China and India signed in 1954.
- India welcomed Panchsheel, recognizing its alignment with its foreign policy since independence.
Ancient Roots
- Panchsheel traces its origin to the Buddhist concept of Pañcaśīla, which describes the five moral vows of Buddhism: abstinence from murder, theft, sexual misconduct, lying, and intoxicants.
- Confucius, the Chinese philosopher, spoke of harmony amid differences, laying the groundwork for these principles.
- Panchsheel’s modern form emerged in China, bridging ancient wisdom with contemporary international relations.
Key Features
- Mutual Respect for Territorial Integrity and Sovereignty: Both nations committed to respecting each other’s territorial boundaries and sovereignty, emphasizing the importance of recognizing each other’s rights and boundaries.
- Mutual Non-Aggression: India and China pledged not to engage in aggressive actions against each other, aiming to prevent armed conflicts and maintain peace.
- Mutual Non-Interference: The two countries agreed not to interfere in each other’s internal affairs, emphasizing respect for national autonomy and sovereignty.
- Equality and Mutual Benefit: India and China sought equal treatment and mutual benefits in their interactions, emphasizing fairness and cooperation.
- Peaceful Co-existence: The ultimate goal was peaceful coexistence, fostering an environment where both nations could thrive without conflict.
Relevance
- Post-Chinese Revolution, the Common Programme adopted most core Panchsheel principles.
- Panchsheel guided India-China relations and resonated in the North-South dialogue and other global groupings. Its relevance persists in our ever-changing world.
Collective Security in Asia
- India and China concluded that a system of collective security or collective peace could be established in Asia through the Five Principles (Panchsheel), rather than military pacts and alliances.
- They visualized Panchsheel agreements of this type between China and Burma, Burma and India, China and Indonesia, then Indonesia and India, etc.
Global Acceptance
- The Five Principles came to be accepted almost universally by countries and finally by the United Nations Organisation.
- The UN accepted the Five Principles as a code of conduct in international relations. Later, Yugoslavia, Sweden, and India moved a resolution in the UN containing the Five Principles; it was adopted unanimously.
- In a series of active and independent international moves, heads of both countries visited countries in Asia, Africa, and Europe and signed agreements embodying the Five Principles.
- The Asian-African conference held in Bandung accepted the Five Principles, expanding them into the Ten Principles of Bandung.
- Panchsheel became the presiding principle of the Asian-African movement for equality and freedom against the prevailing colonial and imperialist domination of the world.
- The Conference of Non-Aligned Nations in Belgrade accepted them as the core principles behind the Non-Aligned Movement (NAM).
Concerns Related to India and China Relations
Boundary Questions
- Since the 1980s, India and China have sought peaceful resolution of their boundary dispute. Informal summits between leaders, like those in Wuhan (2018) and Chennai (2019), emphasized strategic communication and cooperation.
- However, the unresolved boundary issue remains a point of contention, leading to occasional tensions.
Economic Ties
- Bilateral trade has grown significantly, with China becoming India’s largest trading partner in goods.
- However, economic competition and geopolitical tensions persist. Both countries vie for influence in South Asia, often competing for regional projects and markets.
Strategic Geopolitics
- South Asia lies at the crossroads of China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). The region’s proximity to the Indian Ocean and shipping routes is critical for China’s oil imports and trade.
- South Asia, where land and maritime Silk Roads intersect, plays a crucial role in this initiative.
Infrastructure Investment
- China invests heavily in port development, enhancing connectivity and securing its maritime trade routes.
Military Dimension
- China’s military ties with South Asian nations have grown, impacting regional dynamics.
- Its influence extends through diplomacy, culture, and economic initiatives.
Way Forward
- Today, the Panchsheel Principles continue to resonate globally.
- They guide interstate relations, remain relevant in addressing contemporary challenges, and foster peace, sovereignty, and mutual growth.
- By adhering to these principles, India and China can work towards a more harmonious and cooperative future, setting an example for the rest of the world.
Conclusion
- India-China relations stand at a critical juncture. Both countries need to focus on dialogue and diplomacy, and conflict avoidance.
- Balancing competition and cooperation is essential for regional stability and prosperity, as highlighted at the Wuhan summit.
- As both nations celebrate 70 years of diplomatic ties, revisiting the spirit of good neighbourliness and friendship remains crucial.
