India’s security concerns have been greatly exacerbated by the hasty withdrawal of the US from Afghanistan and there are worries about how situations will unfold in the region from now on. Analysts are advising New Delhi that it should not trust the US while working on strategies against China in the Indian Ocean Region.
Admiral John C. Aquilino, Commander of the United States Indo-Pacific Command, has reassured the Indian establishment about the US’ commitment towards cooperation with New Delhi in the Indo-Pacific.
Speaking after the meeting with India’s Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Bipin Rawat and Army Chief, General Manoj Mukund Naravane, in New Delhi, the admiral said that Chinese military expansion is the largest military build-up since the Second World War in all domains – conventional and nuclear – and partner countries should work together.
Aquilino avoided responding directly to ongoing criticism that the Biden administration’s policy has been wrong-headed and badly executed, by saying that Afghanistan was not an area of his responsibility.
The commander of America’s largest combatant command was sitting next to General Rawat as he emphasised that the US certainly has the capabilities to do more than anyone can imagine in the Indo-Pacific region.
“Trying to understand their intent is a little concerning… We see that words from the People’s Liberation Army don’t always match their deeds,” he added.
In his remarks, Admiral Aquilino referred to the challenges India has been facing, specifically with regard to “sovereignty on the Line of Actual Control” as well as the “foundational security concerns” in the South China Sea region, in a clear reference to China’s assertive behaviour.
On whether there was any mismatch in the perceived threat among quad members, the admiral indicated “No” although he added that the member countries should aim for enhanced interoperability.
“If there is any challenge at all, I would say interoperability is the one I would highlight… Having the same equipment really helps and we continue to work together to try to make it as easy as possible,” the admiral said.
Sourse: sputniknews.com
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