China’s relations with Russia and Pakistan have followed an unpredictable path, often mired in domestic and international tensions.

Ever since the 2009 release of the U.S.-China Joint Statement pledging bilateral cooperation to promote “peace, stability and development” in South Asia, the role of these two countries in the subcontinent has come under increased scrutiny and criticism.

In November 2010, U.S. President Barack Obama visited India, followed by Chinese Prime Minister Wen Jiabao the following month. These visits had a mixed impact on Chinese-Indian-U.S. relations.