Defense Secretary of the US [equivalent to MOD in India] Ashton Carter landed in USS Theodore Roosevelt last November while the fleet was transiting SCS.
He again hopped on to the USS John C. Stennis during the 1st week of March, 2016, which was stationed in the SCS along with its CSG – fleet of 2 destroyers, 2 cruisers and the 7th fleet flagship. The USS Blue Ridge followed suit. They are part of the US Pacific Fleet with their garrison HQ @ Yokosuka, Japan.
On board Stennis, Carter was reported to have spoken not of their presence in the region but Tension, blaming China for militarizing the region.
In American language, they call it ‘Freedom of Navigation’ aka. ‘Cold War Mentality’ on this side of the World, you are Capi or Commi.
India’s position, during November, 2015, MOD – Manohar Parrikar – rendez voused with US Pacific Command HQ – Hawaii and later in December, 2015 met up with Carter in DC. The 1st Indian MOD to do so. May even be the 1st Indian non mil. Official.
Joint Exercise & Patrols promises were floated, but have not been operationalised yet and may not in the near future, considering India’s earlier stand on JPs @ Gulf of Eden. India maintains to be stoic singular.
China was on Leave. Ha ha.
However, as part of Diplomatic efforts, to maintain decency, MOD visited China, he was extended ceremonial welcome at the PLA Hq. by his counterpart Gen. Chang Wanquan.
Mazood Azhar’s name was popped up by the Indian side during talks, knowing fully well China would not budge.
During 1st week of April, 2016, China spoked India’s move at the UN Proscription Committee to resolve Mazood Azhar’s as Intl. Terrorist, by placing a technical objection in the last minute.
Followed by the visit of NSA to Beijing. The topic was listed upfront with no favourable colors from the Chinese side.
Diplomatic coup was to come, later in the form of an Uighur, in the fourth week of April, 2016.
India granted Visa to Dolkun Isa, to make himself available at Dharamshala to meet up with the Dalai Lama.
South India English Daily reported with a caption ‘terrorist’ Uighur granted Visa. You find no such caption elsewhere for obvious reasons.
MOD, MEA, chaffed on all sides, left & right and center. Next day’s news could be written by you and me. China frowned, pissed off.
Was it mis-handling as reported in the major dailies. You don’t brag.
We have learnt playing GO. It’s matter of time with the right kind of Government.
Scratch my back, I’ll scratch yours.
As on 12.50 hrs IST, this day, US fleet brings down curtains on Mil. Drills as near as 12 nm off Spratly’s.
Folk music is heard on the Chinese patrols. Folk music is sung by Folk artists, isn’t it.
China few days back denied POC to USS Blue Ridge in Hong Kong.
Smile through your lips. RIMPAC is slated for June & July, 2016. China & US will participate in joint exercises.
yudhampragya 