BEIJING - In a sharp diplomatic rebuke, China has accused the United States of distorting its defense policies to sabotage the fragile rapprochement between Beijing and New Delhi. The statement marks a significant escalation in the war of words over regional influence in the Indo-Pacific.
A Calculated Interference
Speaking at a press briefing on Wednesday, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian claimed that Washington is "leveraging" the recent de-escalation of border tensions between China and India to further its own geopolitical agenda.Beijing asserts that the U.S. is deliberately misrepresenting China’s military intentions to drive a wedge between the two nuclear-armed neighbors. "The U.S. must stop its provocative actions and correct its mistakes," Lin stated, emphasizing that the development of China-India relations is a bilateral matter that requires no "third-party interference."
The Strategic Tug-of-War
The timing of Beijing’s rhetoric is no coincidence. It comes as the U.S. continues to bolster its "Major Defense Partnership" with India, viewed by many analysts as a cornerstone of the American strategy to contain China’s rise.China’s sensitivity appears rooted in two primary factors:
- Border Stability: After years of deadly friction along the Line of Actual Control (LAC), both Beijing and New Delhi have recently taken steps toward disengagement. China views any U.S. military or intelligence support to India as a threat to this delicate peace.
- Indo-Pacific Influence: As the U.S. strengthens the QUAD alliance (U.S., India, Japan, Australia), Beijing fears a permanent American strategic footprint right on its doorstep.
Despite the stern warning to Washington, China’s message to India remained one of cautious cooperation. Beijing reiterated its commitment to fostering ties based on mutual respect and shared developmental goals.
However, the underlying message was clear: Beijing believes that India’s strategic autonomy is being tested by Western promises. By framing the U.S. as a "disruptor," China is urging New Delhi to prioritize regional solidarity over extra-regional alliances.
Silence from Washington
As of Wednesday evening, the U.S. State Department has not issued a formal response to the allegations. Historically, Washington has maintained that its partnership with India is based on shared democratic values and a commitment to a "free and open Indo-Pacific" a vision that frequently clashes with China’s territorial claims and maritime ambitions.