India's 5G ban beyond rationality

India authorized trials of 5G wireless technology on Tuesday, in which it has invited foreign telecommunications equipment providers to participate, with the notable exceptions of the Chinese companies Huawei and ZTE.

The decision, which accedes to Washington's will, definitely damages the Indian government's credibility because it had earlier given the green light to the two Chinese enterprises to participate in the trials.

However, the change of heart is not totally surprising given that India has already banned dozens of Chinese apps, including TikTok, WeChat, and Tencent's hit game PUBG Mobile, among other restrictive measures it took targeting Chinese businesses and exports following the deadly border clash in June last year, and given that New Delhi has been cozying up to Washington as India's ties with China have frayed.