China May Seek to Leverage Reduced LAC Tensions to Check Growing India–US Ties: US Report

New Delhi: China may be planning to take advantage of the reduced tensions along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) to stabilise its bilateral relationship with India, with the possible aim of preventing further deepening of India–United States relations, according to a recent report by the US Department of Defense.

The assessment was included in the Pentagon’s annual report submitted to the US Congress. The report refers to developments following the 2024 BRICS Summit, during which Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping announced an understanding on troop disengagement and de-escalation along the LAC.

That meeting marked a significant moment in easing prolonged border tensions between the two Asian neighbours. According to the report, the Modi–Xi interaction paved the way for renewed high-level monthly engagements between India and China.

These discussions reportedly covered a range of confidence-building measures, including border management mechanisms, resumption of direct flights, improved visa facilities, and exchanges involving academics, experts, and journalists.

Such steps indicate a cautious attempt by both sides to normalise relations after years of strain. The US Defense Department, however, believes that Beijing could be attempting to use the current reduction in border tensions to recalibrate ties with New Delhi in a manner that limits the expansion of India–US strategic cooperation.

At the same time, the report notes that India is likely to remain wary of China’s intentions, given past experiences. Persistent mutual distrust and unresolved issues are expected to continue constraining the overall scope of India–China relations.

The report also highlights China’s long-term national strategy of achieving what it calls “national rejuvenation” by 2049. This vision, according to the Pentagon, is aimed at significantly enhancing China’s global influence and power.

It includes strengthening the control of the Chinese Communist Party, sustaining economic growth, and safeguarding as well as expanding China’s claims over sovereignty and territorial interests.

Amid ongoing territorial disputes in the South China Sea, the Senkaku Islands, and Arunachal Pradesh in northeastern India, the report states that achieving sovereignty claims over Taiwan remains a core objective of China’s leadership.

On US–China relations, the report notes that under President Donald Trump’s leadership, efforts have been made to bring greater stability to bilateral ties. The US Department of Defense has expressed support for initiatives aimed at improving communication with the People’s Liberation Army (PLA).

These include expanding military-to-military engagements with a focus on strategic stability, conflict prevention, and crisis management. The Pentagon further emphasised that US interests in the Indo-Pacific region are fundamental and legitimate. It clarified that Washington does not seek to contain, dominate, or humiliate China.

Instead, as outlined in President Trump’s national security strategy, the objective is to prevent any single country from gaining the ability to dominate the United States or its allies in the region. Reiterating its commitment to peace, the report stated that aggression would not be tolerated and that maintaining a balance of power is essential to ensuring stability in the Indo-Pacific.

The US aims to promote a region where trade remains free and fair, prosperity is shared, and the interests of all nations are respected.

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