Overview of China's New Map

China recently unveiled its 2023 edition of the standard map, making prominent territorial claims. This official representation shows Arunachal Pradesh and Aksai Chin within the Chinese border. Additionally, the map maintains a nine-dash line that covers the entire South China Sea, with a tenth dash added east of Taiwan, reinforcing Beijing's claim to the region.

Background of the Territorial Claims

Arunachal Pradesh and Aksai Chin

Both Arunachal Pradesh and the Aksai Chin region were shown as part of China in this latest cartographic rendering. The Department of Natural Resources is responsible for the release of this 2023 version.

The Nine-Dash Line and Taiwan

The so-called nine-dash line, which includes the South China Sea, remains unchanged from its previous versions. However, the addition of a "tenth dash" east of Taiwan highlights Beijing's long-standing claims to the island.

Context of the Release

China's decision to release this map is in line with its "National Mapping Awareness Week". The event also coincides with the 30th anniversary of the Surveying and Mapping Law in the People's Republic of China.

This law's primary objective is to:

Strengthen the management of surveying and mapping efforts.
Support his progression.
To ensure that it contributes to the growth of the national economy, strengthens national defense and benefits social progress.

Beijing's Recent Border Activities

Under the leadership of President Xi Jinping, it rigorously manages its border areas. In 2022, this approach was embodied by the adoption of a new border law. This legislation outlines the roles of both civilian and military authorities in China and emphasizes measures to promote national sovereignty.

Name Standardization

Earlier this year, Beijing announced the standardization of the names of 11 places in Arunachal Pradesh. The decision came after India held events leading up to the G-20 summit in Arunachal Pradesh, which Beijing had earlier objected to. This "renaming" act by China can be seen as a diplomatic gesture ahead of President Xi Jinping's visit to the G-20 summit in Delhi.

What's Next?

Post the release of the standard map, there are plans to launch digital maps. These would cater to a range of applications, such as:

Location-based services
Precision agriculture
Platform economy
Intelligent connected vehicles

FAQs on China's 2023 Territorial Map

Q: What significant changes does the 2023 map show?

Answer: The map shows Arunachal Pradesh and Aksai Chin within the Chinese border. It maintains the nine-dash line and introduces a tenth dash east of Taiwan.

Q: Why was the map released now?

Answer: The release is part of "National Mapping Awareness Publicity Week" and commemorates the 30th anniversary of the Surveying and Mapping Law of the People's Republic of China.

Q: How does the new border law affect territorial claims?

Answer: The Border Law of 2022 strengthens the various responsibilities of authorities in China to preserve national sovereignty, including promoting border education and conducting border exercises.

Q: What was the motive behind renaming places in Arunachal Pradesh?

Answer: It is seen as a response to India holding events in Arunachal Pradesh leading up to the G-20 summit, which Beijing opposed.

China's 2023 Territorial Map: A Comprehensive Insight | ojaank ias academy