The geopolitical landscape of South Asia is undergoing significant changes as Pakistan and China strengthen their partnership against India at new strategic levels. From Pakistan Army Chief Asim Munir’s high-profile visit to Sri Lanka to China’s growing influence in India’s neighborhood, these developments signal new challenges for India—stretching from its coastlines to the high Himalayas.
The New Pakistan-China Partnership
- Military Cooperation: In 2025, military ties between Pakistan and China have taken on a sharper edge. Pakistan is now deploying Chinese fighter jets, missiles, and drones along India’s borders, while China provides real-time intelligence and satellite data, as seen in Operation Sindoor.
- Two-Front Threat: This intensified collaboration has forced India to grapple with simultaneous security concerns on its western (Pakistan) and northern (China) borders. The prospect of a coordinated two-front challenge seriously complicates India’s defense strategy.
- China’s Strategic Ambitions: China is cementing its presence across South Asia using the “string of pearls” strategy—building infrastructure and deepening ties in Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Indonesia, and more. Through projects like the Belt and Road Initiative and the Digital Silk Road, China is effectively trapping small nations in debt and expanding its strategic grip.
Asim Munir’s Visit to Sri Lanka
- Grand Welcome and Symbolism: Pakistan’s Army Chief, Asim Munir, visited Sri Lanka from July 20–23, receiving extraordinary protocol—a special aircraft, motorbike cavalcade, helicopter tours, stays in luxury hotels, and visits to key historic sites. This rare treatment signals both the importance of the visit and a deeper geopolitical message.
- Beyond Diplomacy: Munir’s meetings with Sri Lankan officials and defense personnel indicate a level of military coordination and trust surpassing standard diplomatic engagement. Joint exercises and high-level exchanges are on the rise.
China’s Expanding Influence in India’s Neighbourhood
- Entrenchment in Sri Lanka and Beyond: China’s heavy investments have drawn nations like Sri Lanka and Bangladesh closer, giving Beijing access to ports and critical infrastructure close to India’s southern coast.
- Economic Leverage: China’s practice of providing large loans for infrastructure under initiatives like BRI often results in these countries struggling to repay, bringing them further under Chinese influence.
- Digital Silk Road: By providing technological infrastructure, China has gained unparalleled access to digital networks and data, expanding its intelligence outreach into South Asia.
Implications and India’s Response
- Strategic Pressure on India: For India, this simultaneous pressure from both western and northern borders, coupled with the encirclement strategy in the Indian Ocean, heightens its need for military, diplomatic, and economic vigilance.
- Countermeasures: India has responded by strengthening military readiness across both fronts, bolstering relationships with neighboring countries through aid and diplomacy, and enhancing its own infrastructure capabilities.
- Global Context: The evolving China-Pakistan partnership is part of a broader contest for influence in Asia, where the US, India, and allies are increasingly cooperating to balance China’s growing power.
Conclusion
The rapidly shifting dynamics in South Asia mark a critical moment for regional security. As Pakistan and China deepen collaboration against India—across military, diplomatic, and technological domains—India faces a complex set of challenges requiring thoughtful and resolute action. The strategic competition extends beyond conventional borders, involving economic influence, digital connectivity, and global alliances. As this new axis takes shape, India must adapt and innovate to safeguard its interests and maintain regional stability.