China Slams Pentagon Report, Accusing US of Distorting Defence Policy and Sowing Discord

China has strongly opposed a recent Pentagon report that accuses the country of attempting to undermine US-India ties by deepening defence ties with Pakistan. The report, submitted to the US Congress, also highlighted China's cooperation with Pakistan in sectors such as defence and space, including plans to set up a military base. China's Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian denounced the report, stating that it distorts China's defence policy and aims to find a pretext for the US to maintain its military supremacy. Lin emphasized that China views its relations with India from a strategic and long-term perspective, and is committed to strengthening communication, enhancing mutual trust, and promoting cooperation. The report, titled 'Military and Security Developments Involving the People's Republic of China 2025', accused China of leveraging reduced border tensions with India to stabilise bilateral relations and prevent the deepening of US-India ties. It also highlighted China's sovereignty claims in the South China Sea, the Senkaku Islands, and the northeastern Indian state of Arunachal Pradesh. China's Defence Ministry spokesman Zhang Xiaogang also denounced the report, calling it a gross interference in China's internal affairs. He stated that the report maliciously misinterpreted China's national defence policy and made unfounded speculations about China's military development. Zhang urged the US to stop fabricating false narratives and provoking confrontation and antagonism. The report noted that China is actively considering and planning for additional military facilities, including a potential base in Pakistan. China's cooperation with Pakistan in defence and space sectors has raised concerns in the US, which has been closely watching China's military development and expansion in the region.