Overview
- The US Defense Department’s 2025 report says China probably seeks to use reduced tension along the Line of Actual Control to stabilize ties with India and to slow deeper US–India alignment.
- The assessment lists Arunachal Pradesh among Beijing’s expanded “core interests,” grouping it with Taiwan and maritime sovereignty claims.
- Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian rejects the report as sowing discord and says the border situation with India is generally stable with established communication channels.
- The report highlights deepening China–Pakistan defense ties and says Beijing has likely considered Pakistan for future PLA logistics facilities, a contention China’s Defense Ministry dismisses.
- Following the October 2024 disengagement, India and China resumed flights, visas and talks, yet New Delhi’s normalization remains cautious as sensitivities persist, illustrated by recent detentions linked to Arunachal Pradesh.