CDS Anil Chauhan delivered a b rebuke to Pakistan at the Shangri-La Dialogue in Singapore. He stated that India is now operating under a strategic framework and maintaining distance from Pakistan is the best approach.
Singapore: India has changed, and so has its strategy. At the Shangri-La Dialogue in Singapore, India's Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Anil Chauhan, responded firmly to Pakistan, stating that if Pakistan continues its hostility, maintaining distance is India's best strategic option. He clarified that India no longer operates without a strategy; every step is taken as part of a well-considered plan.
India's Strong Message at the Shangri-La Dialogue
The Shangri-La Dialogue is a major Asian defense forum where regional security and strategic issues are openly discussed. This year's event took place in Singapore from May 31st to June 2nd. At this significant conference, General Anil Chauhan shared his views on "Future Warfare and Military Art" and also participated in a session on "Defense Innovation Solutions for Future Challenges."
In his address, CDS Chauhan stated that India has significantly altered its strategy since 2014. He explained that at India's independence, Pakistan was ahead in several areas, including social development, GDP, and per capita income. However, today, India surpasses Pakistan in every sector – a result not of chance, but of a robust strategy.
Response to Pakistan: Distance is the Best Strategy
CDS Anil Chauhan explicitly told Pakistan that if it continues its hostility, maintaining distance is the wisest course for India. He mentioned that in 2014, Prime Minister Narendra Modi invited then-Pakistani Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif to his swearing-in ceremony, but cooperation requires reciprocity. When one side offers only hostility, expecting friendship in return is futile.
India's Growing Global Role
During his Singapore visit, CDS Chauhan met with several key defense officials and military leaders, including representatives from Australia, France, Germany, Japan, the United States, the UK, and Singapore. These meetings focused on enhancing security cooperation and strengthening partnerships in the Indo-Pacific region. A notable meeting was held with Admiral Samuel J. Paparo, Commander of the US Indo-Pacific Command (INDOPACOM), discussing strengthening military-to-military cooperation and exploring new opportunities in the Indo-Pacific region.
Shift in China's Strategy
This year's Shangri-La Dialogue notably lacked a Chinese defense minister, a significant change. China was represented by a delegation from the National Defence University of the People's Liberation Army. China's approach has shifted in recent years, particularly amidst tensions with the US over Taiwan and the South China Sea. The US Defense Secretary's speech also generated significant discussion, offering a glimpse into the Trump administration's Indo-Pacific defense policy.
India's Changing Perspective
General Chauhan also highlighted India's rapid progress towards self-reliance in defense matters. India's emphasis on defense innovation and technology is evident. Indigenous production of military equipment, boosting defense production under "Make in India," and adopting new technological solutions have become India's priorities.
India is not only playing a crucial role in regional security but is also strengthening its global position. Its activity in the Indo-Pacific and its strategic partnerships are receiving global praise.
What is the Shangri-La Dialogue?
The Shangri-La Dialogue is a forum for discussing security challenges and strategic issues in the Asia-Pacific region. Established in 2002, it is held annually. This year's conference included representatives from 47 countries, with over 40 ministerial-level representatives.
French President Emmanuel Macron was invited to deliver the opening address, reflecting the forum's growing global significance. Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim also addressed the conference.
