China intends to be a predominant military power in the region and will not hesitate to use its armed forces to protect its development interests. Image: Joe Chan / Reuters
Why China's Growing Military Should Concern India -- Anirudha Dutta, Forbes
India has several reasons to be wary of, and counter, China’s military build-up
China’s latest white paper on defence, a once-in-two-year exercise, was issued on April 16. It clearly underscores the importance of the People’s Liberation Army and its pivotal role in the economic development and growth of China. Its military rise is of concern for India, given its proximity to Pakistan, from where India has faced continuous threats of terrorism and military misadventures. The strategic relationship with Pakistan is evident from the number of joint exercises and training carried out in 2011-12 and economic investments.
The white paper emphasises China’s peaceful rise and its intent to “never seek hegemony... But we will surely counterattack if attacked”. China now sees itself as a world power that has arrived and it will likely intrude, even if it is not attacked, based on perceived threat or slight. The report says, “China’s security and development are closely connected with the peace and prosperity of the world as a whole.” This seems at times to be at odds with its sense of insecurity and the challenges that the report highlights in order to justify its massive military build-up.
Read more ....
My Comment: The Chinese are making their intentions very clear .... and India is only now starting to pay attention.