ELECTIONS '98
COMMENTARY
SPECIALS
INTERVIEWS
CAPITAL BUZZ
REDIFF POLL
DEAR REDIFF
THE STATES
YEH HAI INDIA!
ARCHIVES

Fernandes's statement focuses again on threat from China

India's defence policy must take into account the complex regional security environment, and in particular China's nuclear weapon and missile capability, the government told the Lok Sabha today.

In a written answer to P J Kurien and others, Defence Minister George Fernandes said: ''The clandestine acquisition of nuclear weapons and offensive missile capability targeted solely against India and the long established transfer from external sources of nuclear weapons and missile technology, equipment and expertise to Pakistan, must also be taken into account.''

Besides, military collaboration between China and Myanmar also has a direct bearing on India's security, the statement said.

The statement notes: "China is our biggest neighbour. China is a nuclear weapon state and continues to maintain the largest standing army in the world. In recent years, China has undertaken, as a national objective in tandem with economic growth and development, the modernisation of her armed forces, including her nuclear weapons capability. China has laid stress on the doctrine of 'active defence', 'limited war under high technological conditions' and the creation of 'rapid reaction combat units' with a focus on her periphery. The redefinition of China's 'strategic frontiers' coupled with military modernisation programmes, are rapidly transforming the force projection capabilities of China's armed forces in the sea, air and on land. In recent years, China has also engaged in upgrading logistic and infrastructure facilities in the India-China border areas."

The statement says: Defence Minister George Fernandes in his recent interviews and memorial lecture has reiterated the aforementioned concerns. The defence minister has reaffirmed government's commitment to seek a resolution of all pending issues with China through mutual consultations, and has stated that the talks should go beyond the confidence-building measures. "The government remains committed to the process of building a co-operative and constructive relationship with China."

It also said the government keeps under constant review all developments having a bearing on the country's security and takes appropriate measures to safeguard the national interest.

UNI

Tell us what you think of this report