US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin started his visit to India on Friday with China on his mind, while observers noted that despite deepening security partnership, India will not downgrade as a US’ appendage like Japan since New Delhi seeks major power autonomy. Read More…

(FILES) In this file photo taken on October 17, 2014 Commander of US Central Command Gen. Lloyd Austin III conducts a media briefing on Operation Inherent Resolve, the international military effort against (IS) Islamic State group, at the Pentagon in Washingon, DC. - US President-elect Joe Biden has chosen retired General Lloyd Austin to head his Defence Department, US media reported on December 7, 2020. Lloyd Austin, who led US troops into Baghdad in 2003 and rose to head the US Central Command, has been chosen by President-elect Joe Biden to be the first African-American secretary of defense. (Photo by Paul J. RICHARDS / AFP)