By The South Asia Times

ISLAMABAD - In the aftermath of a stunning and unprecedented military victory over India, Pakistan’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister, Senator Mohammad Ishaq Dar on Monday has embarked on a significant three-day diplomatic mission to Beijing.

The visit underscores the deepening strategic ties between Pakistan and China and comes at a time of dramatic regional shifts following the recent conflict.

This marks the first time since 1965 that Pakistan has emerged militarily triumphant over India in a direct confrontation — a development that has shocked global observers and dealt a severe blow to India's standing as the world’s fourth-largest military power. The war, though brief, has had far-reaching implications, particularly for the defense and geopolitical dynamics in South Asia.

In an official statement, Pakistan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs confirmed Dar's departure for Beijing, emphasizing that he would hold wide-ranging talks with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi and other senior leaders of the Chinese Communist Party. These discussions will focus on regional security, economic collaboration, and the evolving strategic environment in light of recent developments.

China has expressed satisfaction over the performance of its military technology during the conflict. The Pakistan Air Force’s (PAF) use of Chinese-made J-10C multirole fighter jets played a critical role in achieving air superiority, with at least three Indian Rafale fighter reportedly shot down — a symbolic victory of Chinese over Western aviation technology. Furthermore, the jointly developed JF-17 Thunder fighter jet also demonstrated advanced combat capabilities, earning praise in Chinese state media and defense circles.

"This war has reshaped perceptions," said a senior Chinese defense analyst. "The J-10C and JF-17's performance validated Chinese design and strategy against Western platforms in real combat — something no simulation or exercise can replicate."

The deputy prime minister’s visit is part of a broader framework of high-level bilateral engagements reaffirming the All-Weather Strategic Cooperative Partnership between the two countries. Sources suggest that Islamabad and Beijing may discuss expanded defense cooperation, regional stabilization efforts, and potential new joint ventures in aerospace and cybersecurity, said the ministry in a statement.

In diplomatic circles, Dar's visit is also being seen as a move to consolidate Pakistan’s regional standing and to express gratitude to China for its steadfast support during the crisis. Meanwhile, India faces global scrutiny and internal political pressure, as questions mount over the efficacy of its Western-equipped military and the strategic direction of its leadership.

Analysts believe the outcome of the conflict and subsequent diplomatic engagement between Pakistan and China could signal a shift in the regional power balance, with long-term implications for U.S. and Western interests in South Asia.

This visit not only reaffirms Pakistan’s strong alliance with China but may also mark the beginning of a new chapter in Asian geopolitics — one where Chinese technology, diplomacy, and military strategy play an increasingly decisive role.