Online published on 6 August, 2014.
China is the most populous and fast rising country in the world today and is extending its influence in South and Southeast Asia in keeping with its official doctrine and preordained “National Dream”. With this goal in mind and for security considerations, it has been creating and strengthening bonds with Pakistan, Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Nepal and Sri Lanka, which increase its leverage on India, especially if the latter aligns with Japan and the US against it. India has reason to fear Chinese encirclement, while the growing assertiveness and self-confi dence of the People's Liberation Army is a cause for concern, as they could push the communist government into foreign military adventures. Building confidence and cooperation between all states in the region is vital for its prosperity and stability.
