THE twenty-first century has been dubbed Asia’s century.

Yet, if Asia is rising, its history would be incomplete without mentioning its two hostile and powerful nations, China and India.  Geography and to some extent cultural ties bind them together, but boundaries, mistrust and conflicting aspirations for leadership keep them apart. China sees itself as destined to become a “Middle Kingdom” civilization. India, on the other hand, is steadfast in its post-colonial pursuit of strategic independence. What results from the collision of these narratives is a partnership that is perpetually on the verge of conflict and cooperation. Any defeat turns into a political wound, while even small tactical victories along the Line of Actual Control are exaggerated into emblems of national pride. Because nationalism is a constant diet for both publics, compromise seems perilously near to treachery.

Nowadays, a large portion of the rivalry takes place outside of the mountains. From Gwadar to Hambantota, Beijing’s Belt and Road Initiative is seen in New Delhi as a “string of pearls” that will tighten the noose and encircle India in its own nautical backyard. As a result, India has become more transparent in........

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