An excerpt from the book General's Jottings: National Security, Conflicts & Strategies by Lt Gen. (Retd) KJ SINGH

Pakistan has added two light Divisions equipped with sophisticated equipment and other dual use capabilities in the garb of CPEC.

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Pakistan is caught in a debt trap and economic crisis leading to the spectre of Hambantota type of situation and even talk of economic colonisation. The project has the potential to escalate regional tension and has added to strategic challenges for India. India needs to be prepared to face the long-term threat posed by China and Pakistan in a collusive mode.

China is increasing its presence and influence in the Indian Ocean using bases like Djibouti, in conjunction with Gwadar, Hambantota, and other bases as part of its Maritime Silk Road (erstwhile string of pearls) and two oceans strategy.

China's attempt to secure a role in Chabahar after launching Gwadar, as also Kyaukphyu in Myanmar in relation to India's venture of Sittwe, is indicative of a desire to stymie Indian connectivity initiatives. It doesn't fit into the propaganda narrative of shared prosperity and regional co-operation. On the contrary, it is more appropriate to read it in the context of the Chinese maxim, "One mountain cannot take two tigers."

China, though a late entrant, is utilising its fiscal clout and port development leverages to set up forums to counter already established ones.