China Shares Satellite Intelligence on India with Pakistan, Confirms Defence Minister
Pakistan's Defence Minister, Khawaja Asif, has revealed that China is providing Islamabad with satellite-based intelligence on India. This disclosure, shared in an interview with Arab News, follows the conclusion of Operation Sindoor, a significant Indian military operation targeting terror infrastructure across the border. The statement underscores the strengthening of the strategic partnership between China and Pakistan.
Asif described intelligence sharing among allied nations as a customary practice, particularly for those facing common threats. He stated, "These days, countries that are close to each other do share intelligence. It’s very normal if we are sharing any information we have."
He further explained that the intelligence being exchanged is pertinent due to the ongoing disputes between China and India. Asif emphasized, “The Chinese also have issues with India. So I think it’s very natural to share intelligence gathered through satellites or other means,” thereby confirming a growing alliance focused on counterbalancing India's regional influence.
The timing of Asif's acknowledgment is significant. Following the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack, which resulted in 26 fatalities, India initiated Operation Sindoor—a coordinated series of precision strikes on terror sites in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. This military escalation led to global concerns, culminating in a ceasefire agreement that Pakistan accepted on May 10 without preconditions.
Despite the ceasefire, Pakistan's defense readiness remains heightened. Asif remarked, “Since our conflict or this short war with India, we have not lowered our guards. We’ve maintained this alert status for over a month now,” indicating ongoing mistrust and a sustained level of military preparedness.
India has not officially responded to Asif’s comments, although New Delhi has repeatedly voiced concerns regarding China's increasing involvement in Pakistan's strategic matters. The exchange of intelligence, particularly through satellite surveillance, is perceived by Indian security experts as a potential enduring threat to regional stability.
The ceasefire between India and Pakistan, while currently in effect, is delicate. The broader impact of China's active intelligence support to Pakistan is expected to significantly influence future diplomatic and security decisions in South Asia.
