China may build a military base near Iran's Chabahar port

New Delhi : With the United States taking tough action against Pakistan, China is looking to make the most of the situation. There are reports claiming that China will be acquiring a Pakistani military base close to Iran's Chabahar port.

Donald Trump's tweet on January  1 accusing Pakistan of providing safe heavens to the terrorists appears to be the ignitor in boosting Pakistan ties with China.

A report quoted a 'Washington Times' report that China is in talks with Pakistan to build its second overseas military base as part of a push for greater maritime capabilities along strategic sea routes.

The new military base is proposed at Jiwani, a port near Iran's Chabahar close to the border in the Gulf of Oman, and is located a short distance from Gwadar in Balochistan province.

Currently, China has one international military base in Djibouti in the Horn of Africa in Indian Ocean.

Besides Djibouti, China has also acquired the Hambantota port in Sri Lanka on a 99-year lease.