Glad we're back on the track i.e. the grand landscape of South Asia
To remind of u of timeline - Those allies u mentioned embraced China AFTER (not before) they realized their plights. For example Pakistan, once even a member of SEATO against China + Communism, joined hand with China when its survival was being put at stake. India dismantled Pakistan by "liberating" its eastern part. And India has always been a big bully in the region, for NP, BD and even Bhutan.
They aren't beggars nor suicidal. They cant pick neighbors (India being a given) but they can pick friends. Moreover getting gaga over your peers with wordings like beggar ain't helping u get anywhere. There's much hot air on India becoming a world class power. But what has SL or NP, or BD gained from her hard or soft power. Their relationship with China is for mutual good. China invests and gets a foothold in SL. And SL boosts their economy and grows their competency. Win Win.
ohimalaya,
You've got your timelines screwed up, havent you? Pakistan was doing admirably economically during the times of SEATO. Unlike as in some other countries, its easier to verify facts around here you know!
Their economy went on a downward spiral much after that. You have chose not to reply anything on North Korea and Myanmar... a silent admission?
These are the countries that chose to have CCP leaders as their allies... Death trap, isnt it?
SL is doing quite well on the economic side. What better proof that they still are not a Chinese ally?
Inspite of what morons on keyboards may claim, the real Lankans who matter are aware of the dangers of being a Chinese ally. So you still have the Lankan premier giving out statements clearly differentiating the level of relationship that his country has with India and China.
So, Sri Lanka will have a prosperous future.