US Pentagon Report: China's "Core Interest" Now Includes Arunachal Pradesh
A significant new report from the US Pentagon has revealed China's firm claim over India's Arunachal Pradesh. This Indian state is now listed by Beijing as a "core interest," placing it alongside Taiwan and major sea disputes as a key part of China's long-term national strategy. The report also highlights growing cooperation between China and Pakistan.
China's Grand Vision: "Rejuvenation" by 2049
The Pentagon's analysis explains that China's leadership has broadened its definition of "core interests." These now include Taiwan, sovereignty claims in the South China Sea, the Senkaku Islands, and, notably, Arunachal Pradesh. China sees securing these territories as vital for its goal of achieving the "great rejuvenation of the Chinese nation" by 2049.
Chinese officials reportedly view the unification of China with these disputed lands, especially Taiwan, as a "natural requirement" for this national rebirth. Under this vision, a "rejuvenated" China would operate at a higher global level, backed by a "world-class" military ready to "fight and win" battles, while steadfastly protecting its sovereignty, security, and development goals.
India-China Relations: Caution Along the LAC
Regarding ties between India and China, the report mentions an agreement from October 2024. India announced a plan with China to pull back troops from remaining standoff points along the Line of Actual Control (LAC). This agreement came just two days before Prime Minister Narendra Modi met President Xi Jinping at the BRICS Summit.
This meeting led to regular high-level talks on various issues, including border management, direct flights, visa services, and exchanges between academics and journalists. China appears to be trying to use reduced tensions at the LAC to stabilize its relationship with India and prevent closer ties between India and the US. However, the report suggests that India is expected to remain cautious, with deep mutual distrust likely limiting how far the relationship can grow.
Deepening China-Pakistan Strategic Partnership
The US Pentagon's assessment also flags stronger military and strategic teamwork between China and Pakistan. Beijing continues to co-produce the JF-17 fighter aircraft with Pakistan and remains the only buyer of China's J-10 multirole combat aircraft. China has also supplied armed drones to Pakistan and other countries, and is a key naval supplier to Islamabad, as shown by Pakistan's $3 billion purchase of eight Yuan-class submarines.
Beyond weapon sales, the report notes that China might be considering Pakistan as a location for future military logistics facilities for its People's Liberation Army (PLA). This would be part of China's wider strategy to establish overseas bases beyond its existing one in Djibouti.
Intelligence Cooperation and China's Non-Negotiable Interests
Furthermore, the report discusses a 2020 intelligence agreement between China and Pakistan. This deal expands their cooperation on counter-terrorism operations in Pakistan and Afghanistan, specifically targeting Uyghur groups.
According to the assessment, Beijing identifies three main "core interests" that it considers non-negotiable:
- The continued control of the Chinese Communist Party (CCP).
- Strong economic development.
- The defense and expansion of its territorial and sovereignty claims.
The report concludes by highlighting that the CCP is highly sensitive to any criticism suggesting it is failing to protect Chinese interests. It views both internal and external challenges as direct threats to its right to govern.
