After Trade Agreement, US Removes Map Showing PoK And Aksai Chin As Part Of India

New Delhi: America has taken an important step by suddenly changing its stance on a sensitive geopolitical issue related to India. The map in which Pakistan Occupied Kashmir (PoK) and Aksai Chin were shown as part of India has been removed from the website of the Office of the US Trade Representative (USTR). After this change, a new debate has started at the international level regarding America's position and its intentions.

What changes has USTR made to the map?

The map previously published on the USTR website showed Jammu and Kashmir, PoK and Aksai Chin as part of India. Recently this map was removed and a new version was released, in which these disputed areas are not shown as part of India. This change was made quietly but soon became visible.

Why did this map come into discussion earlier?

This map of USTR came into limelight because it also included the territory of India which is claimed by Pakistan and China. This was considered a diplomatically positive gesture in India, while objections were raised by Pakistan and China.

Why did America suddenly change its stance?

Experts believe that international pressure on America has increased. Especially after the objections of China and Pakistan, America has tried to strike a balance. The US has generally avoided officially supporting any side in such disputed areas.

What does this change mean for India?

India has long been making it clear that Jammu and Kashmir and all its associated areas are its integral part. The removal of the map is being considered as a diplomatic blow for India, although there has been no official sharp reaction from the Indian government on this.

What has been the reaction of Pakistan and China?

After the map was removed, both Pakistan and China expressed satisfaction. Pakistan was already calling it against its sovereignty, whereas China has been very sensitive about Aksai Chin. It is believed that the objections of these two countries played a role in America's decision.

Is this a sign of a change in US policy?

According to diplomatic experts, this step is more an attempt at immediate balance than any permanent policy change. America is close to India in matters of trade, security and strategic partnership but also wants to avoid confrontation with China and Pakistan.

Has America made such changes before?

America has amended its official documents and maps several times in the past. Especially in cases of sensitive border disputes, it often adopts an ambiguous or neutral stance so as not to show open support to any one party.

What could be the international impact of this decision?

This change can create a stir in the politics of South Asia. This indicates that America is avoiding taking a direct side in regional disputes. In the coming time, it will be seen what effect this has on India-US relations.

How will this issue be monitored going forward?

Analysts are now keeping an eye on whether India gives a formal response to this and whether the US makes more such changes in its documents in the future. At present this step is being seen as a U-turn in international diplomacy.