Closer Military Ties Between India And The U.S.

General George Casey
(Photo from U.S. Army)

US General’s Siachen Visit Casts Shadow On
India-Pakistan Ties -- Khaleej Times

NEW DELHI — India’s growing political and defence relations with the United States have apparently left Pakistan’s military establishment ill at ease. Islamabad has vehemently protested the visit of US army chief General George Casey to ‘disputed’ Siachen, reflecting the deterioration in its relations with Washington.

The Siachen is a 6,300 metre high lifeless glacier in the Karakoram range of Kashmir.

However, India and the US have refused to attach importance to Pakistan’s burly indignation over Gen Casey’s visit.

Officials said his scheduled arrival at Siachen was primarily aimed at familiarising himself with the model the Indian Army adopts for physical endurance in severe cold conditions, and high altitudes. “It’s part of our defence ties. Such reactions are needless,” said a Ministry of External Affairs official. “India and Pakistan have held several talks on Siachen, and even have an agreement on the modalities for disengagement and redeployment of troops from there. In such a situation, protesting against the visit of Gen Casey could not be to the liking of India and the US,” said the officials.

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My Comment: There appears to be a realization among the U.S. Defense establishment that the natural ally in the region is India. The Pakistan military is reacting vehemently against this realignment.