India-US Relations and the Threat of China-Pakistan Nexus

India and the United States have witnessed significant developments in their bilateral relationship over the years. Both countries share a common goal of promoting regional stability, economic growth, and democratic values. As India rises as a global power and China asserts its dominance in the region, the strategic partnership between India and the US has gained even more significance. Additionally, the growing China-Pakistan nexus poses a unique set of challenges that further strengthen the bond between India and the US.

India-US relations have evolved significantly in recent decades, transitioning from a period of mistrust to a strategic partnership. Both countries have been working together on various fronts, including defense cooperation, counterterrorism efforts, trade and investment, and people-to-people exchanges. The bilateral defense relationship has deepened through joint military exercises, defense technology transfers, and defense trade. The US has emerged as one of India's top defense partners, supplying advanced military equipment and technology. This collaboration is crucial for India's efforts to modernize its armed forces and enhance its defense capabilities.

Economically, the two nations have also witnessed substantial growth in trade and investment. The US is one of India's largest trading partners, and both countries have expressed a desire to expand their economic ties further. Cooperation in areas such as energy, technology, innovation, and infrastructure development has the potential to unlock immense opportunities for both nations. The Indian diaspora in the US has played a pivotal role in strengthening people-to-people ties and fostering cultural exchange.

The rise of China and its deepening relationship with Pakistan present a complex challenge for both India and the US. China's Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) has created economic linkages with Pakistan, which has further cemented their strategic partnership. The China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), a flagship project under the BRI, has raised concerns for India due to its territorial implications in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir, a region claimed by India. The nexus between China and Pakistan poses a threat to regional stability, as it emboldens Pakistan's support for terrorist organizations and its aggressive actions along the Line of Control in Jammu and Kashmir.

Recognizing the gravity of the situation, India and the US have been closely coordinating their efforts to counter the China-Pakistan nexus. Both nations have emphasized the importance of a free, open, and inclusive Indo-Pacific region. The Quadrilateral Security Dialogue, also known as the Quad, comprising India, the US, Japan, and Australia, serves as a platform to address common challenges, including maritime security, connectivity, and regional development. The Quad aims to promote a rules-based order, ensure freedom of navigation, and support a peaceful resolution of territorial disputes.

The US has expressed its support for India's concerns regarding cross-border terrorism and the need for Pakistan to take decisive action against terrorist groups operating from its territory. The US has also designated Pakistan-based terrorist organizations, such as Lashkar-e-Taiba and Jaish-e-Mohammed, as global terrorist entities. Furthermore, the US has expressed its commitment to maintaining a strong military presence in the Indo-Pacific region to counterbalance China's assertive actions.

In conclusion, India-US relations have witnessed significant advancements across various domains, including defense, trade, and people-to-people ties. The shared vision of promoting regional stability and countering the China-Pakistan nexus has further strengthened the partnership.

Indian PM Narendra Modi’s visit is to the US recently significant in view of the above. Not only does it build upon the trust which seems to be developing between the two countries, but it seems that both the countries need each other to negotiate the geopolitical shifts which they will face in the near future. Also, both the principles will need the defense and business agreements that they have signed domestically, as it will help boost their respective economies, take business away from China, and create jobs, just in time for the election year.  

China - Superpower too soon

 

China's rise as a global power has been a significant development in recent decades. While there is no universally agreed-upon definition of a superpower, it generally refers to a nation with significant economic, political, military, and cultural influence on a global scale.

China's rapid economic growth, technological advancements, and increasing global influence have led to debates about its status as a superpower. The Chinese government, under the leadership of the Chinese Communist Party, has pursued policies and initiatives aimed at enhancing its international standing. These include initiatives like the Belt and Road Initiative, increasing military spending, and projecting influence through various diplomatic and economic channels.

One more factor is playing here in China’s perception about its superpower status. Xi Jingping has declared that by 2037 China will become a unified superpower. Meaning China will capture Taiwan one way or the other. On this timeline the CCP has to move fast as war with Taiwan will have serious percussions for China. After observing the sanctions against Russia, it remains to be seen how Xi manages this timetable.

China has often been referred to as an emerging or rising power, but the term "superpower" carries a higher level of global influence and capabilities. Some argue that China has prematurely considered itself a superpower, given that it still faces challenges such as socio-economic disparities, environmental issues, and regional tensions.

However, it's worth noting that China's self-perception as a superpower is a complex issue with diverse perspectives. Some Chinese officials and scholars argue that China's historical legacy, population size, economic might, and technological advancements make it a legitimate contender for superpower status.

India is fast emerging as a serious contender to China. China’s declining population does not stand it in good stead to sustain a long growth period. Juxtaposed to this is India’s demographic dividend which is extremely favorable for growth if exploited properly.

One glaring deficiency of Chinese power has recently come to light. Satellite photos have revealed that the latest Chinese aircraft carrier, the Fujian, has been docked, with cracks visible on its landing deck. This has led many experts to conclude that the Chinese military power projection is just CCP propaganda for domestic consumption. China is unable to patrol the South China Sea, much less the entire Pacific as none of its carriers are available for service until next year.  

Ultimately, whether China is considered a superpower or not depends on various factors and can be a subject of debate. The global power dynamics are constantly evolving, and China's role in the international arena will continue to shape and be shaped by these changes.