After Map Row, US Removes Trade Post Depicting PoK and Aksai Chin as Part of India

Washington: The United States Trade Representative Office of America has taken a step that has sparked discussion in diplomatic circles. First, a map of India was shared, in which Pakistan-occupied Kashmir and Aksai Chin were shown as part of India. After a few days, the same post was quietly removed. Now the question is arising whether this was a mistake or a changed strategy.

What is the whole matter?

Last week America announced a new trade deal with India. Meanwhile, a map was posted on social media. In this map, the entirety of Jammu and Kashmir, PoK and Aksai Chin were shown within the Indian border. This portrayal was different from America's previous stance, so many people were surprised.

What was different about the map?

Generally, Pakistan-occupied Kashmir was shown differently in American maps, so that the dispute was clearly visible. But this time there was no distinct mark or dividing line. The entire area was directly shown as a part of India. This is the reason why it was considered a big change.

Then why was there a need to delete the post?

Speculation started as soon as the map was revealed. Has America changed its policy? Is this a sign of increasing closeness with India? Seeing the growing controversy between these questions, the office removed the entire post without giving any explanation. This stopped the debate but increased the suspicion.

What message was sent regarding Aksai Chin?

Aksai Chin was also shown as part of India in the map. China claims this area as its own. In such a situation, this portrayal is also considered sensitive from China's point of view.

Has there been a recent change in India-US relations?

There was tension regarding trade between the two countries for some time. But now the atmosphere has changed a bit. Tariffs have been reduced and it has been agreed to increase trade cooperation. In such a situation, some people were looking at this map by associating it with the warmth in relationships.

What has been India's stance?

India has always said that the entirety of Jammu and Kashmir is its integral part. The Ministry of External Affairs has many times objected to the wrong maps and depiction of borders in international forums.

Overall, even a simple map can give a big message in international politics. The post was removed, but it showed how sensitive border issues are even today and every step has to be taken thoughtfully.