Myanmar has assured India that no Chinese nationals are present on the strategically significant Coco Islands, amidst India’s concerns over Chinese military expansion in the region. This reassurance was communicated during the recent India-Myanmar defense dialogue; however, Myanmar has yet to grant permission for an Indian Navy inspection of the islands, raising suspicions about its transparency. The Coco Islands’ proximity to crucial Indian military assets amplifies their strategic importance, as India enhances its naval posture in the Indo-Pacific. This situation underscores the persistent trust deficit in India-Myanmar relations and reflects broader geopolitical tensions, particularly as China continues to increase its influence in the region through initiatives like the String of Pearls strategy, potentially encircling India.