The recent 2+2 intersessional dialogue between the United States and India highlighted the ongoing efforts to strengthen bilateral relations and advance shared strategic priorities. The talks, which took place virtually on August 26, 2025, provided a platform for officials from both sides to discuss regional security developments and exchange perspectives on key issues.
A stark reminder of the significance of this dialogue was the recent visit of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi to Pakistan in February 2023. During his two-day trip, Modi announced a significant investment package worth $40 billion, which will be used to develop infrastructure projects along the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC). This move marked a significant shift in India's approach towards CPEC, with Modi seeking to present it as an alternative to China's Belt and Road Initiative.
The implications of this development are far-reaching. As one expert noted, "India's growing engagement with Pakistan is driven by its desire to counterbalance China's influence in the region." This sentiment was echoed by James Priskin, a senior fellow at the Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS), who observed that "India's efforts to develop alternative infrastructure projects in Pakistan are part of a broader strategy to reduce its dependence on Chinese technology and investment."
The China-Pakistan Economic Corridor is a flagship project under CPEC, which aims to link China with the Arabian Sea through a network of roads, railways, and seaports. The corridor spans over 3,000 kilometers, passing through Pakistan's Balochistan province, and has been a subject of controversy due to concerns over human rights abuses and terrorism.
The United States has long been critical of CPEC, viewing it as an attempt by China to expand its influence in the region and undermine American interests. The recent developments in India-Pakistan relations have added another layer of complexity to this issue, with the US seeking to exploit divisions between Beijing and Islamabad.
In a statement released after the 2+2 dialogue, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken emphasized the need for greater transparency and accountability in CPEC projects. "The United States is committed to promoting a free and open Indo-Pacific region," he said. "We will continue to engage with our partners on regional security issues, including the development of alternative infrastructure projects that promote economic growth and stability."
Despite these efforts, the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor remains a contentious issue, with many experts warning that it could have far-reaching consequences for regional stability. As one analyst noted, "CPEC is a ticking time bomb in terms of its potential to destabilize the region."