Zeng Xianghong and Luo Jin

Abstract:This article holds that China’s handling of land boundary affairs is mainly influenced by two factors: boundary function and the awareness of decision makers of threat perception. The article suggests that China opts for one of four different coping strategies for addressing border issues on the basis of how Chinese decision makers assess boundary function with respect to the relative importance of political and security factors or economic factors, as well as an assessment of the perceived severity of the threat posed by an opposing state. These four strategies include: force, demonstrate determination (including military confrontation), diplomatic negotiations, and mutually beneficial cooperation. Exploring the reasons underlying differences across China’s diverse handlings of various land boundary disputes not only helps clarify the factors that influence the Chinese government’s responses to such issues, but also helps to inform China’s handling of its current territorial disputes with India as well as other land boundary disputes. It can further enhance China’s neighborhood diplomacy and provide important policy guidances for China’s efforts to revitalize the Chinese nation.

Key Words: Sino-India Relations; Border Disputes; Boundary Functions; Threat Perception; Neighborhood Diplomacy

About the Authors:Zeng Xianghong is a Professor of Institute for Central Asian Studies, and School of Politics and International Relations, Lanzhou University; Luo Jin is Master Degree Candidate of School of Politics and International Relations, Lanzhou University