China and Pakistan issued a joint communiqué Monday cautioning against “hegemonism,” “bullying,” and the creation of exclusive political groupings — remarks widely interpreted as an indirect reference to India and its expanding cooperation with Western allies.
The message followed the seventh round of the Pakistan-China Foreign Ministers’ Strategic Dialogue in Beijing, attended by China’s Wang Yi and Pakistan’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar.
Although the statement did not explicitly name any country, observers linked it to concerns over the Quad — the grouping of India, the United States, Japan, and Australia.
According to the communiqué, both nations reaffirmed their commitment to the UN Charter, multilateralism, and free trade, while opposing actions that undermine national sovereignty or promote bloc confrontation through “small circles” of power.
The remarks come as China continues to face criticisms from neighbouring countries such as Vietnam, Bhutan, and the Philippines over alleged coercion tied to territorial claims, economic leverage, and military posturing.
Earlier, Dar echoed similar sentiments in his year-end address, suggesting that certain major powers had embraced the narrative of India as the dominant security provider in the Indian Ocean Region — a perception he said had shifted following recent regional developments.
He claimed Pakistan’s armed forces had demonstrated strength in a recent conflict, challenging what he described as India’s claim to regional dominance.
In contrast, Washington has repeatedly expressed support for India’s role in maintaining stability in the Indian Ocean, viewing it as part of broader efforts to balance China’s influence. A recent joint US-India declaration reaffirmed this position.
Regional diplomacy excluding India
Despite warning against exclusive blocs, the communiqué highlighted China and Pakistan’s intention to further develop trilateral frameworks that notably leave India out — including cooperation mechanisms involving Afghanistan and Bangladesh.
Counterterrorism commitments
Both sides urged the international community to avoid “double standards” on terrorism and pledged deeper cooperation. China additionally praised Pakistan’s “sacrifices” in combating terrorism — a position India has long disputed, accusing Islamabad of allowing militant networks to operate against it.
Focus on Afghanistan and ‘ironclad’ ties
The statement urged stronger measures against terror groups operating from Afghanistan and insisted Afghan territory must not be used against any country.
Concluding the dialogue, Beijing and Islamabad reiterated their intent to strengthen what they described as an “ironclad” strategic partnership, expanding cooperation and setting new goals for their long-standing alliance.