In June 2025, a significant trilateral meeting took place in Kunming, China, involving Pakistan and Bangladesh. This initiative aims to enhance regional cooperation and follows a similar meeting among China, Pakistan, and Afghanistan held in May 2025. The overarching goal of these engagements is to revitalize China’s presence in the region while simultaneously countering India’s expanding strategic influence.
India perceives these trilateral meetings as a potential alignment of regional powers against its interests. This comes at a time when India's relations with Afghanistan are strengthening, yet its ties with Bangladesh have become strained. India is particularly concerned that these initiatives will reinforce Pakistan's role while drawing Bangladesh closer to China.
The alignment between China and Pakistan can be traced back to the Sino-Indian war of 1962, which prompted China to view Pakistan as a vital strategic ally. Since then, China has provided extensive military and economic support to Pakistan, with over 80% of Pakistan's arms imports originating from China. Furthermore, China has consistently defended Pakistan in international forums like the United Nations.
In May 2025, India launched Operation Sindoor in response to a terror attack linked to Pakistan in Pahalgam. Following this, China supported Pakistan’s call for dialogue, reflecting a diplomatic stance that avoided attributing blame. The situation escalated when Pakistan deployed advanced military equipment sourced from China, suggesting a coordinated effort against India.
Amid these developments, China is also looking to strengthen ties with Nepal, seeking to establish alignments in South Asia that exclude India. Notably, China’s foreign minister visited Nepal ahead of the trilateral meeting, signaling intentions to economically and militarily influence India’s neighboring countries.
Although India shares cultural and economic bonds with Bangladesh, the current leadership in Bangladesh is pursuing a path of strategic autonomy. Recent political changes have led to a more favorable attitude towards Chinese investments and political support, especially in security cooperation, which could further distance Bangladesh from India.
China's overarching objective through these trilateral initiatives is to forge a counter-coalition against India. This strategy is integrated into China’s Belt and Road Initiative, which encompasses infrastructure projects, diplomatic engagement, and military partnerships, all aimed at curbing India’s regional influence.
In reaction to these strategic shifts, India has heightened its military readiness and is actively seeking stronger alliances with like-minded nations. India remains vigilant about Chinese expansionism, particularly in light of past confrontations in Galwan and Doklam. Despite facing challenges, India continues to engage with Afghanistan and Bangladesh to maintain its influence in South Asia.
Currently, China’s efforts have not fully altered the regional balance of power. While it has solidified its relationship with Pakistan and made progress in Bangladesh and Afghanistan, these countries remain cautious about becoming overly reliant on China. Their cultural and economic ties with India continue to play a significant role.
India stands at a crossroads, facing a strategic challenge. If its neighbors' missteps are not addressed diplomatically, it could lead to a significant shift in the regional dynamics. To counter these developments, India must bolster regional cooperation, enhance connectivity, and ensure stability along its borders.
Q1. What is the purpose of the China-Pakistan-Bangladesh trilateral initiative?
Answer: The initiative aims to strengthen regional cooperation among China, Pakistan, and Bangladesh, countering India's strategic influence in South Asia.
Q2. How has history influenced China-Pakistan relations?
Answer: Historical conflicts, particularly the Sino-Indian war of 1962, established Pakistan as a strategic ally for China, leading to significant military and economic support.
Q3. What recent actions by Pakistan have raised concerns for India?
Answer: The deployment of advanced military equipment from China and Pakistan's diplomatic support from China following India's Operation Sindoor have increased tensions.
Q4. Why is Nepal considered strategically important for China?
Answer: Nepal's potential alignment with China could create a new regional coalition that excludes India, impacting India's influence in South Asia.
Q5. How is India responding to China's growing influence in its neighborhood?
Answer: India is enhancing its military preparedness and strengthening ties with allies, while continuing to engage diplomatically with Afghanistan and Bangladesh.
Question 1: What was the primary goal of the trilateral meeting hosted by China in June 2025?
A) Strengthening ties with India
B) Enhancing regional cooperation among China, Pakistan, and Bangladesh
C) Promoting military alliances against China
D) Addressing economic issues in South Asia
Correct Answer: B
Question 2: Which event is often cited as the beginning of the China-Pakistan alliance?
A) The creation of Pakistan in 1947
B) The Sino-Indian war of 1962
C) The establishment of the Belt and Road Initiative
D) The 1971 Bangladesh Liberation War
Correct Answer: B
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