Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) General Anil Chauhan has raised concerns about a potential "convergence of interest" between China, Pakistan, and Bangladesh, highlighting the serious security implications this could have for the region. Speaking at an Observer Research Foundation event on Monday, July 7, 2025, General Chauhan emphasized the need for a thorough evaluation of these evolving alliances and their potential long-term effects on regional stability.
General Chauhan pointed out that frequent changes in government across South Asia, coupled with shifting ideological perspectives and geopolitical priorities, present significant challenges. He stressed that India's commitment to strategic autonomy should not be mistaken for strategic isolation. The CDS's remarks come amid increasing Chinese presence and influence in India's neighborhood, adding weight to the concerns about the emerging trilateral dynamic.
The CDS also commented on the role of the United States in the current global landscape, suggesting that Washington's stance is adding complexity to an already fragile global order. Without citing specific instances, he alluded to America's ambiguous posture in the Indo-Pacific and West Asia.
Furthermore, General Chauhan addressed the issue of economic fragility and debt diplomacy in the Indian Ocean region. While the specific details of this concern were not elaborated upon, it suggests a broader worry about the potential for external actors to exploit economic vulnerabilities for strategic gain.
In addition to the evolving dynamics with China, Pakistan, and Bangladesh, General Chauhan has previously voiced concerns about ongoing border disputes with China and escalating tensions with Pakistan in Jammu and Kashmir. He has also noted the unrest in Bangladesh as a cause for concern. These issues, combined with the potential convergence of China, Pakistan, and Bangladesh, paint a complex and challenging security landscape for India.
General Chauhan has emphasized the importance of India embracing the Indian Ocean as its strategic future, especially given geopolitical constraints with China and Myanmar. He likened India to an island nation, highlighting the strategic advantage of its island territories. He has also stressed the need for self-reliance in defense through initiatives like Atmanirbhar Bharat, focusing on indigenous platforms and networked warfare capabilities. This push for self-reliance is driven by the understanding that India cannot remain dependent on foreign imports for war fighting and sustenance, especially in a volatile global security environment.
India's approach to Pakistan involves a long-term strategy, and despite Pakistan's initial advantages at the time of independence, India has surpassed it in various metrics, including economic performance, human development, and social harmony. While India has made diplomatic overtures, such as inviting Nawaz Sharif in 2014, reciprocal cooperation is necessary for progress.
The concerns raised by CDS Chauhan highlight the complex and evolving security challenges facing India. The potential convergence of interests between China, Pakistan, and Bangladesh, combined with existing border tensions and regional instability, requires careful monitoring and a proactive, multi-faceted approach to safeguard India's interests and promote regional stability.
