India, March 1 -- In South Asia's turbulent political landscape, where regime changes often reshape regional dynamics, China has nearly perfected a strategy of proactive engagement. By cultivating ties with both ruling and opposition factions, Beijing insulates its interests from political upheavals, ensuring continuity regardless of who holds power. From the Taliban in Afghanistan to the Yunus-led interim government in Bangladesh and Sri Lanka's Anura Dissanayake, China's ability to diversify diplomatic risks and engage a broad political spectrum underscores its calculated approach to securing influence.

The ouster of Sheikh Hasina in 2024, after mass protests, tested China's adaptive diplomacy. Despite Hasina's decade-long partnership ...