It is a pleasant surprise that China, along with Russia, has decided to back India in moving a proposal at the United Nations that goes against the interests of Pakistan on the issue of terrorism. The visit of External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj to China has also possibly influenced a change of heart in China. But India must be cautious and see if this is not a ploy to wean us away from its strengthening relationship with the US after President Barack Obama visited India as the chief guest on Republic Day. China has also acknowledged that foreign forces are helping terrorists in Xinjiang.
The other significant development during Ms Swaraj’s visit is that, both China and Russia have agreed to a larger role for India in the UN, the Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation and the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation. This fits in well with India’s plans for a larger role in the Asia-Pacific region.