India-China to revive part of old silk route
March 22, 2008
Anirban Choudhury
http://publication.samachar.com/pub_article.php?id=1564088&navname=General%20&moreurl=http://publication.samachar.com/hindustantimes/general/hindustantimes.php&homeurl=http://www.samachar.com

Summary: This article focused on the idea of reviving one of the silk roads between India and China. The road barely exists due to a previous war, and is controlled by militants. Although china is eager to reopen the 1600 km road and engage in more efficient trade with India, India fears the dangers of the militants, which are being aided with arms and ammunition. The use of the route would be much more efficient than the sea route, because of the icredible difference in distance. China’s enthusiasm is “predictable,” because it’s obvious that they want access to Indian markets and ports.

A) I think this article relates to the AP World History theme, “Creation, Expansion, and Interaction of Economic Systems.” The article is about trade and commerce, and the renewal of a trade route between China and India.

B) The Indian side of the road was built by Joseph Stilwell in 1942. It connects Kunming in southwest China to Ledo in Assam. Ever since the war, the road has been controlled by inhabitants and unused for trading purposes.

C) The point of view of the article is a Hindu, Indian male. They are an outsider to the story. The writer is most likely not involved in any of the issues in the article.

D) Being an Indian, the author may be in favor of the Indian opinion (reluctance to opening an old silk road). This may be why he called China’s enthusiasm “predictable.” He may be swayed to criticize their motives in saying that the Chinese are only interested in the well-being of their economy and access to Indian markets.

E) To gain a full understanding of the article I would have to hear from a Chinese official negotiating whether to open the road or not. They would reveal a more precise opinion of china is urging to use this trade route.

F) This article is interesting because it involves a historical road that will once again serve a purpose. The use of the road for trade would benefit both India and China, but it would also add to China’s huge economic influence.