The India Story | As China abandons Lanka, India steps up to help

As the new regime in Sri Lanka tries to manoeuvre the country out of its worst crisis in decades, one question is on everyone’s lips - where is China? As China appears reluctant to offer aid to its ‘all-weather friend’ in a time of dire need, many are pointing out that China’s irresponsible investments - which were always predicted to fail commercially - have contributed to Sri Lanka’s crisis.

Also Watch: Decoded: How did the Sri Lanka economic crisis get so dire?

India, on the other hand, has stepped up in a big way to help its neighbour. Around $3.8 billion worth of aid from India has included items like kerosene, grain, and medicines, which have kept the country’s essential systems going, which may otherwise have failed.

Also Watch: Sanath Jayasuriya says mismanagement has caused the disaster in Sri Lanka

As China looks to distance itself from the Rajapaksas, the warning bells are ringing for other countries which have similar investments from Beijing. Does this give India an opportunity to further cement its standing as a financial partner? Will countries now be wary of China’s ‘debt-trap’ investments? Vikram Chandra discusses with diplomatic and policy experts on The India Story.

Watch The India Story with Vikram Chandra, Fridays at 8PM.