India move by US 'targeted China'

Remarks by the United States on strengthening ties with India apparently targeted China, but New Delhi will handle its relations with Beijing carefully, according to analysts.

US Ambassador to India Richard Verma was quoted by The Associated Press on Monday as saying that India's leadership is sorely needed in the Asia-Pacific region, and the US is prepared to cooperate with India "as never before" on the high seas.

Verma said this cooperation was not aimed at China. He hoped that in the not-too-distant future, US and Indian navy vessels sailing together would become a common and welcome sight throughout Indo-Pacific waters.