By Admin 
The US Defense Department (Pentagon) has claimed in its annual report that China is trying to deploy its army closer to India. Preparations are being made to build bases for China’s People’s Liberation Army (PLA) in four neighboring countries of India. These four countries are Bangladesh, Pakistan, Sri Lanka and Myanmar, where additional military facilities or logistics bases will be built. This will increase the strength of water, land and air forces. The army’s reach over long distances will increase and sea routes will be safe.
China trying to increase army around India
According to the Pentagon report, China already operates its only foreign military base in Djibouti and has gained access to Ream Naval Base in Cambodia. Now it is working on a plan to build such bases in about a dozen countries around the world, which include India’s neighbors. The report said that these facilities will help the PLA to extend and maintain its naval, air force and ground forces.
What is happening in India’s neighboring countries?
- Pakistan: Gwadar naval base is already being built in collaboration with China. China has given a deal for 35 J-10C fighter jets to Pakistan. Hangar class submarines, warships and other jets like 5th generation FC-31 fighter jet, J-10 fighter jets have been offered. Joint manufacturing of JF-17 fighter jets is also going on.
- Bangladesh: China is considering building a military base here. Bangladesh is showing interest in purchasing J-10C fighter jets. Pakistan had used them against India’s Rafale. China has given VT-5 light tanks, two Ming class submarines and two warships 2024 to Bangladesh. Military relations with China were strong since the time of Sheikh Hasina, which continues in the Yunus government also.
- Sri Lanka and Myanmar: There are plans to build general military facilities or logistics bases, which will help in increasing the strength of PLA.
What is China worried about?
The report also says that China’s biggest concern is the Malacca Strait, where there is a threat of siege from the US and Indian navies. China is also concerned about the security of the Strait of Hormuz and the sea routes of Africa-Middle East. Apart from this, discussions are also being held on making bech in countries like Angola, Cuba, Guinea, Indonesia, Kenya, Mozambique, Namibia, Nigeria, Papua New Guinea, Seychelles, Solomon Islands, Tajikistan, Thailand, UAE and Vanuatu.
What impact will China’s actions have on India?
Pentagon says that China is countering the growing friendship between India and America by strengthening military ties with Pakistan. However, after the Modi-Xi Jinping meetings, steps like reducing tension on LAC and starting visa services have also been taken. But China is including Arunachal Pradesh in its ‘core interest’.
This report shows that America is constantly keeping an eye on China’s growing military power and global reach. China has not yet given any direct response to this report. Experts believe that these facilities are part of China’s ‘String of Pearls’ strategy, which is an attempt to create a siege around India.