In global politics, Pakistan clearly has a reliable all-weather friend—China. But for India, the answer is not so clear. During the recent India-Pakistan conflict in May, China stood strongly with Pakistan. It gave open support, helped with satellite images and air defense, and even warned India about cutting off water from the Indus. China also threatened India with action on the Brahmaputra River if tensions grew.
Why is China so close to Pakistan? First, most of Pakistan’s military weapons are Chinese-made. They even test some of them together. Second, China has invested over $68 billion in Pakistan under the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), building roads, railways, and power plants—even in areas claimed by India. Third, China enjoys seeing India struggle on its western front while trying to grow influence in South Asia. And fourth, India’s growing closeness to the U.S. has pushed China even closer to Pakistan.
India, on the other hand, found itself alone during the recent crisis. At the UN, India got little support. Even the U.S., once seen as a strong partner, surprised India with a neutral stand and later praised Pakistan’s role in ending the conflict.
Even Russia, India’s oldest friend, has been quiet. It’s now building ties with Pakistan, including a rail link from Moscow to Lahore. Only Afghanistan and Israel openly supported India. Israel backed India’s actions and even drew comparisons with its own fight against Hamas.
Ironically, while India sees China as a threat, it depends heavily on Chinese goods—especially in electronics and pharmaceuticals. India is now trying to reopen talks with China and ease trade restrictions.
So, the big question remains: Does India have a true all-weather friend? Or does it need to rethink its strategy and build deeper, more loyal alliances?
