S. Kalyanaraman replies: Since a democratic form of government is an expression of the will of the people, India is likely to enjoy greater legitimacy in the domestic and international spheres.

M.S. Prathibha replies: The Burma-China Boundary Treaty of October 01, 1960 had settled the boundary dispute between the two countries. Though the agreed boundary mostly followed the McMahon Line, the Chinese called it as “customary boundary”. In other words, the Chinese never legally accepted the McMahon Line, but based their negotiations on what they termed as traditional boundary features. In this context, China’s refusal to agree on McMahon Line with India is more complicated than its negotiations with Myanmar.

Prashant Kumar Singh replies: It would be wrong to presuppose that India considers China as a threat, and prefers an alliance with the United States (US) to counter this threat. India attaches highest priority to having good and friendly relations with China, and considers it as among its most important relationships. Various statements issued by the Indian leaders and the Ministry of External Affairs testify this assertion. However, at the same time, one cannot wish away the complexity of relationship between the two countries.