China is apparently concerned about the outcome – in terms of arms trade – of the bilateral meeting between Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and US President Donald Trump scheduled for today. A top Chinese disarmament strategist said that US drones would help India monitor the Indian Ocean better.

Defence is one of the key issues that will be discussed during the meeting, especially arms trade. Purchase of surveillance drones, more than fighter jets, are worrying China the most. Chinese strategists feel that India-US defence ties have been strengthening as a formidable force against the rise of China since the Bush government, especially after the 2005 nuclear agreement that allows India to import nuclear fuel and technology.