Skeptics warn that placing too much faith in a symbolic handshake at the Delhi summit ignores the fundamental strategic differences between India and China. Critics argue that Beijing often uses such diplomatic forums to project an image of cooperation while continuing to pursue aggressive territorial and economic policies behind the scenes. Relying on these meetings to produce lasting peace may be a dangerous miscalculation that leaves India vulnerable.
There is significant concern that China's economic influence within BRICS is being leveraged to gain an unfair advantage. The 'China shock' is not merely a theoretical risk but a practical reality for Indian industries that struggle to compete with subsidized Chinese imports. Critics argue that unless the summit addresses these structural economic imbalances, the meeting will serve only to legitimize China's regional dominance without providing any real relief for Indian businesses.
Furthermore, there is a fear that the focus on a high-profile handshake distracts from the lack of progress on the ground. If the diplomatic optics are prioritized over substantive concessions, the public may be misled into believing that the border situation is resolved when, in fact, the underlying causes of friction remain unaddressed. This creates a false sense of security that could be shattered by the next flare-up along the border.
Accountability is the central theme for those who remain cautious. They argue that India must maintain a firm stance and not allow the desire for a successful summit to weaken its negotiating position. The priority should be on securing verifiable commitments rather than accepting vague promises of friendship that have historically failed to prevent further encroachment or economic pressure.