CHINA’S STRATEGIC CHOICE: OPPORTUNITIES AND CHALLENGES

South Asian region is quite unique as it is inhabited by two nuclear powers hostile to each other and one of the emerging economies of the world. During Cold War, the strategic scenario in South Asia was pentagonal. The local powers were Pakistan and India while the external powers were the US, Soviet Union, and China. With the disintegration of Soviet Union, the subcontinent became a playground of four players which are still playing a crucial role in the regional politics of South Asia. The interplay of their national interests significantly affected the nature and form of China-India-Pakistan triangle. This study examines China's strategic choice for South Asia from Pakistan and India by making comparative analysis of both opportunities and challenges posed by them to China. It takes regional and global aspect of strategy into considerations while making a research over China's choice for strategic partner