NEW DELHI: India said on Friday it was irked by China’s growing military ties with Pakistan, thereby puncturing any chances for Beijing to play a role to help foster peace in South Asia.

Indian Defence Minister A.K. Antony told a meeting of security analysts that New Delhi needed to be vigilant about China’s improving defence capabilities even as it kept an eye on Pakistan’s ‘thriving’ terror infra-structure.

Mr Antony’s strong comments on Beijing followed a recent joint declaration between the Chinese and US presidents in which they had offered hopes of working for peace in South Asia.

‘We have been making sincere and continuous efforts to resolve long outstanding issues in our region,’ Mr Antony said.

‘We have always strived for peaceful relations with all our neighbours. Even with a vibrant democracy and a prospering economy, we cannot ignore the security calculus,’ he said.

Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh’s ‘willingness’ to resume dialogue with Pakistan must also be seen in this context, Mr Antony said.

‘Pakistan must put an end to terror activities emanating from its soil. However, the terror infrastructure on the ground remains intact — and is actually thriving. Pakistan is yet to demonstrate any will to take speedy action against terrorists and international criminals. We need to closely monitor the developments in Pakistan.’

India was hopeful that China would reciprocate its initiatives aimed at mutual trust building and understanding, Mr Antony said. But, he added: ‘The increasing nexus between China and Pakistan in military sphere remains an area of serious concern. We have to carry out continuous appraisals of Chinese military capabilities and shape our responses accordingly. At the same time, we need to be vigilant at all times.