A US Pentagon report indicates China has elevated its territorial claims over Arunachal Pradesh to the status of a "core interest," placing it alongside Taiwan and South China Sea disputes. This is framed as central to Beijing's national rejuvenation goals by 2049, aiming for a world-class military. The report also notes China's strategy of easing LAC tensions with India while strengthening military ties with Pakistan, potentially to counter deepening US-India relations. India maintains Arunachal Pradesh is an integral part of its territory.