Key Points
- Indian Army Deputy Chief Lt Gen Rahul R Singh accuses China of providing active military support to Pakistan during ‘Operation Sindoor’.
- China dismisses the allegations, calling its defense ties with Pakistan ‘normal’ and not directed at any third country.
- Chinese Foreign Ministry reiterates desire for improved India-China relations.
- Gen Singh claims China used the conflict as a ‘live lab’ for weapon testing and satellite surveillance.
- Turkey also named as a supplier of military equipment to Pakistan during the clashes.
- China refuses to comment on reports of a campaign to discredit India’s Rafale jets post-conflict.
New Delhi: During a press conference in Beijing, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning addressed recent statements made by Indian Army Deputy Chief Lieutenant General Rahul R Singh. Lt Gen Singh alleged that China had provided active military support to Pakistan during ‘Operation Sindoor’, using the conflict as a ‘live lab’ for testing new weaponry.
Mao Ning responded, “I do not have information on this subject. I would just like to say that China and Pakistan are neighbors and traditional friends. Defense and security cooperation between the two countries is normal and it is not against any third country.” She emphasized that such cooperation is routine and not intended to target India or any other nation.
India-China Relations: “At an Important Stage of Improvement”
Mao Ning further highlighted that India and China are currently at “an important stage of improvement and development” in their bilateral relationship. She expressed Beijing’s hope that ties between the two Asian giants would continue to strengthen, despite recent tensions and allegations.
When questioned about reports suggesting that China had instructed its embassies to cast doubts on the capabilities of India’s Rafale fighter jets following the Indo-Pakistan conflict, Mao declined to comment, stating, “I am not aware of the things you mentioned.”
Indian Army’s Claims: “Pakistan is Just a Mask”
At a recent seminar in Delhi, Lt Gen Singh elaborated on his claims, stating that Pakistan was merely a ‘mask’ while China was the primary supporter of Islamabad during the conflict. He also noted that Turkey played a significant role by supplying military equipment to Pakistan.
According to Singh, India faced at least three adversaries during the clashes from May 7 to 10: Pakistan, China, and Turkey. He further alleged that China used its satellites to monitor Indian Army movements, providing real-time intelligence to Pakistan during high-level military talks.
China’s Stance: Maintaining Regional Balance
Mao Ning reiterated the importance of India and Pakistan as neighbors, not only to each other but also to China. She stressed that the current situation where both countries remain important regional players will continue, and China values its relationships with both.
Table: Key Developments in the India-China-Pakistan Triangle
| Event/Statement | Details |
|---|---|
| Indian Army’s Allegation | China gave military support to Pakistan during ‘Operation Sindoor’ |
| Chinese Response | Defense cooperation with Pakistan is normal, not aimed at any third country |
| India-China Relations | At a critical stage of improvement and development |
| Alleged Use of Satellites | China monitored Indian Army, shared info with Pakistan |
| Turkey’s Involvement | Supplied military equipment to Pakistan |
| Rafale Disinformation Campaign | China declined to comment on alleged embassy efforts |
| China’s Position on Neighbors | India and Pakistan are both important neighbors to China |
The latest exchange highlights ongoing tensions and deep-rooted suspicions in the India-China-Pakistan triangle. While India accuses China of direct involvement in regional conflicts and covert support to Pakistan, Beijing continues to frame its actions as part of normal bilateral cooperation. Both sides, however, publicly express a desire for improved relations, even as strategic rivalry persists beneath the surface.
