Indian Army chief Manoj Pande emphasizes Indo-Pacific stability amid rising concerns about China

In the ever-evolving global landscape, the Indo-Pacific region has emerged as a focal point. Indian Army Chief General Manoj Pande, addressing the Indo-Pacific Army Chiefs’ Conference (IPACC), reaffirmed India’s dedication to upholding peace and stability in this vital area. He emphasized the importance of respecting the sovereignty of all nations, especially in light of mounting concerns regarding China’s assertive military activities.

The Indo-Pacific region isn't just a collection of nations; it's a complex web of interdependencies. These interconnections underscore the need for trust and enhanced cooperation among these nations.

General Pande outlined India's vision for the Indo-Pacific, which centers on three key pillars: peaceful dispute resolution, avoiding the use of force, and adherence to international laws. Despite the ongoing efforts of regional nations to create a free Indo-Pacific, challenges persist in the form of interstate contests that transcend borders, necessitating collective responses.


The geostrategic relevance and geo-economic significance of the Indo-Pacific region are undeniable. With 65% of the world's population, 63% of its GDP, 46% of the global merchandise market, and 50% of maritime trade, the region plays a pivotal role on the contemporary geopolitical stage. The interconnectedness of these nations, driven by shared geography and destinies, means that one nation's prosperity and security are closely linked to those of its neighbors.

India, strategically positioned along vital Sea Lanes of Communication, holds a central role in the Indo-Pacific discourse. As the linchpin of the region, India bears a responsibility to contribute to its peace, stability, and prosperity, as highlighted by the Army Chief.

The Indo-Pacific Army Chiefs’ Conference serves as a platform for collaborative engagement, operating on three tiers:

Army Chief’s Conclave (Tier One): This tier focuses on discussions about security dynamics and the macro construct of a synergized strategy for achieving and sustaining peace and stability in the region.

Operational Military Commanders (Tier Two): Military commanders engage in discussions on joint exercises, interoperability, sub-regional perspectives, best practices, and lessons learned, instrumental in shaping a collaborative roadmap for the future.

Senior Enlisted Leaders (Tier Three): Enlisted leaders, with extensive field experience, discuss professional development, leadership, and man management, providing valuable insights.

Bilateral consultations and discussions on the sidelines further enhance Army-to-Army engagement among participating nations.

From an international perspective, Major General Peter Scott, Deputy Commander of the Canadian Army, emphasized the importance of Indian and Canadian armies learning from each other and finding opportunities for joint training and exercises, despite ongoing diplomatic tensions. US Ambassador to India Eric Garcetti stressed the need for free, open seas, rule of law adherence, prosperity through trade, and mutual trust and cooperation among armies to address conflicts.

US Army’s Chief of Staff General Randy George underlined the strength of the US-Indian Army partnership and its vital role in maintaining stability in the Indo-Pacific.

General George, accompanied by 16 other Army chiefs, has arrived in New Delhi to attend the Indo-Pacific Armies Chiefs Conference (IPACC). Furthermore, representatives of Chiefs from 12 countries have also converged in India, underscoring the significance of the IPACC in addressing regional challenges.