A new Pentagon report submitted to the U.S. Congress claims that China aims to incorporate India’s northeastern Arunachal Pradesh into its national map, identifying it as part of Beijing’s expanding list of ‘core interests.’ The report places Arunachal Pradesh alongside Taiwan and disputed maritime zones in the South and East China Seas as central to China’s long-term national strategy. It links these ambitions to Beijing’s goal of achieving the ‘great rejuvenation of the Chinese nation’ by 2049. The document also notes that China and India agreed in October 2024 to withdraw troops from remaining friction points along the Line of Actual Control (LAC). Following that, both nations initiated monthly high-level talks on border management, air connectivity, and academic exchanges. Pentagon analysts suggest China’s de-escalation efforts aim to stabilize ties with India and prevent closer U.S.-India alignment. The report further highlights deepening China-Pakistan military cooperation, including joint fighter production and drone supplies. Analysts warn that despite dialogue, mutual distrust persists, keeping India cautious about Beijing’s strategic intentions in the region.