Beijing: China on Thursday defended its ties with India while criticizing a Pentagon report that claimed Beijing seeks to exploit decreased tensions between the two Asian nations over their border dispute. "The Pentagon's report distorts China's defense policy, sows discord between China and other countries, and aims at finding a pretext for the US to maintain its military supremacy," Foreign Ministry spokesman Lin Jian stated during a news conference in Beijing.

According to Anadolu Agency, the Pentagon's annual report to Congress on China's military and security developments, released on Tuesday, suggested that Beijing 'probably seeks to capitalize on decreased tension along the LAC (Line of Actual Control) to stabilize bilateral relations and prevent the deepening of US-India ties; however, India probably remains skeptical of China's actions and motives.' The report further added that "continued mutual distrust and other irritants almost certainly limit the bilateral relationship."

Lin emphasized that Beijing "views and handles its relations with India from a strategic height and a long-term perspective," expressing China's willingness to enhance communication and cooperation with New Delhi. He stated that China aims to "properly handle differences" and advance a "sound and stable bilateral relationship."

Discussing the boundary issue, Lin described it as a matter between China and India, noting that the current border situation is generally stable, with smooth communication channels. He also criticized what he termed "groundless and irresponsible comments" from other countries.

Relations between New Delhi and Beijing have been strained since the fall of 2019, exacerbated by the death of approximately 24 soldiers along the LAC in the Ladakh region of Jammu and Kashmir in May 2020. However, there has been a warming of ties since last year, with the resumption of direct flights between the two nations after a five-year hiatus.

Additionally, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited China for the first time in seven years, attending the annual leaders' summit of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) in the northern city of Tianjin.