Washington Focuses on India to Counter China’s Rise

The U.S.-China Economic and Security Review Commission (USCC) has announced its first public hearing for February 17, 2026, titled "India, China, and the Balance of Power in the Indo-Pacific."

Washington views New Delhi as the most reliable strategic partner capable of checking Beijing’s growing military and economic dominance. The hearing will specifically focus on the protracted India-China border disputes, freedom of navigation in the Indian Ocean, and India’s "Atmanirbhar" (self-reliant) initiatives. Central to the discussion will be how India can reduce its supply chain dependence on China in critical sectors like Artificial Intelligence (AI), semiconductors, and pharmaceuticals.

Experts believe the timing of this hearing is highly strategic. Following the Modi-Xi meeting at the 2024 BRICS Summit, a slight thaw has been observed in the long-frozen relations between the two neighbors, marked by the Indian Prime Minister's first visit to China in seven years and the resumption of direct flights after a five-year hiatus.

These developments have caused concern among U.S. strategists, who fear a rapprochement could stall American plans to contain Chinese influence. Coming just six weeks before President Donald Trump’s proposed visit to China in April, this hearing is being viewed as a subtle signal to New Delhi to maintain its alignment with Western security interests.

For South Asian neighbors like Bangladesh, this intensifying "Cold War" dynamic poses a diplomatic challenge. As Washington uses India to balance Beijing, developing nations in the region may find it increasingly difficult to maintain the neutral, balanced foreign policy essential for their economic and national security.