Pentagon report says Beijing handles relations with New Delhi from long-term perspective, China slammed

By Anjali Sharma
WASHINGTON – China on Thursday slammed the Pentagon report stated ‘it sows discord between China and other countries, including India” added that Beijing handles its relations with New Delhi from a long-term perspective.

Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian denounced the report said, “The Pentagon’s report distorts China’s defence policy, sows discord between China and other countries, and aims at finding a pretext for the US to maintain its military supremacy.”

“China firmly opposes the report,” the Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson said at a daily press briefing in response to a question on a US report that China probably seeks to “capitalize” on decreased tensions along the border with India to “prevent the deepening of US-India ties”.

“China views and handles its relations with India from a strategic height and a long-term perspective. We stand ready to strengthen communication, enhance mutual trust, promote cooperation, and properly handle differences with India, and advance a sound and stable bilateral relationship”.

“The boundary question is a matter between China and India and the current border situation between the two countries is generally stable with smooth communication channels. China opposes relevant country’s groundless and irresponsible comments,” the spokesperson added.

According to a new US Defence Department report, China continues to prepare for a possible military confrontation with India along the Line of Actual Control, even as both sides pursue diplomatic engagement to stabilize ties.

The report identified China’s Western Theatre Command as responsible for operations involved India. It said the command is structured and trained for high-altitude conflict and border contingencies.

According to the report, in 2024, Chinese forces conducted live-fire drills and mobility exercises in mountainous terrain. These activities were designed for combat in high-altitude and low-oxygen conditions.

The Pentagon assessment noted that China treats its territorial claims as “core interests”.

It said that these claims are considered non-negotiable by Beijing.

The report explicitly includes India’s Arunachal Pradesh within this framework.

India and China announced an agreement in October 2024 to disengage from remaining standoff points along the LAC, the report urges caution.

It said the reduction in tension does not reflect a change in China’s long-term military posture.

The report said Chinese leaders likely seek to ease border friction to prevent closer strategic alignment between India and the United States.

Beijing continues to view US-India defence cooperation with concern.

The report pointed out that China remains wary of expanding US partnerships in the Indo-Pacific. It sees these ties as limiting its strategic freedom, including along its land borders.

China’s broader military modernization also has direct relevance for India.

The PLA is expanding its missile forces, air power, cyber units, and space-based surveillance. These capabilities enable China to operate across multiple theatres simultaneously.

The report noted that China has improved its ability to move forces quickly and sustain operations along its western frontier. Logistics, joint command structures, and rapid mobilization remain key focus areas.

The diplomatic engagement between New Delhi and Beijing has increased, the report stressed that mistrust remains deep. It says both sides continue to view each other with suspicion, particularly on security issues.

The report concluded that China’s military activities along the India border reflect preparation rather than reassurance.

PLA continues to train for scenarios involving renewed confrontation despite talks and disengagement agreements with India.

U.S. Defence Department in a new report said that China continues to prepare for possible military confrontation with India along the Line of Actual Control, even as both sides pursue diplomatic engagement to stabilize ties.

The report identified China’s Western Theatre Command as responsible for operations involving India.

It said the command is structured and trained for high-altitude conflict and border contingencies.

In 2024, Chinese forces conducted live-fire drills and mobility exercises in mountainous terrain. These activities were designed for combat in high-altitude and low-oxygen conditions, according to the report.

The Pentagon assessment noted that China treats its territorial claims as “core interests.”