At the Shangri-La Dialogue in Singapore, Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) General Anil Chauhan asserted that India has surpassed Pakistan on all developmental fronts, attributing this to India’s long-term strategic planning. He highlighted that despite both nations achieving independence concurrently, and Pakistan initially leading in various social, economic, and GDP per capita metrics, India now holds a significant advantage in economic performance, human development, and social harmony. This, he emphasized, was a deliberate outcome of strategic foresight, not mere chance.
Regarding India-Pakistan relations, General Chauhan stated that India’s approach is not without strategy. He cited Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s invitation to Nawaz Sharif in 2014 as an example of outreach, but noted that persistent hostility from Pakistan necessitated disengagement as a pragmatic strategy for the present.
In other engagements at the forum, CDS General Anil Chauhan met with Admiral Samuel J Paparo, Commander of US INDOPACOM, USA. Their discussions focused on bolstering defence ties, including “Operation Sindoor,” enhancing military-to-military cooperation, and exploring collaborative opportunities within the dynamic Indo-Pacific security landscape. Both leaders reiterated their dedication to addressing emerging security challenges and deepening strategic partnerships.
Additionally, India and Brazil strengthened their bilateral relations during the dialogue. Reaffirming their commitment to a free, open, and inclusive Indo-Pacific, both nations stressed cooperation on regional security, maritime freedom, and sustainable development. General Anil Chauhan and Admiral Aguiar Freire, Chief of Staff of the Armed Forces, Brazil, discussed shared values and interests, underscoring the importance of a rules-based international order and a growing convergence of views between their respective countries on regional and global issues.
