Beijing [China]: Chinese President Xi Jinping, in a congratulatory message to Indian President Droupadi Murmu on Tuesday, emphasized the need for closer cooperation between China and India. The message marked the 75th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between the two nations.
Xi stated that the two countries should “realize a cooperative pas de deux of the dragon and the elephant, which completely serves the fundamental interests of the two countries and peoples.”
Chinese Premier Li Qiang also extended his congratulations to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, reiterating China’s commitment to strengthening bilateral relations.
Strengthening Bilateral Ties
Xi underscored the importance of viewing and handling China-India relations from a “strategic and long-term perspective” and called for peaceful coexistence, mutual trust, and common development between the two neighboring nations.
Recognizing both countries as “ancient civilizations, major developing countries, and important members of the Global South,” Xi noted that China and India are at a crucial stage in their respective modernization efforts.
A statement from Chinese Ambassador to India, Xu Feihong, echoed these sentiments, saying:
“The development of China-India relations demonstrates that it is the right choice for both sides to become partners for mutual success and realize a cooperative pas de deux of the dragon and the elephant. Both sides should seek ways for neighboring major countries to coexist peacefully, deepen mutual trust, and advance international relations towards multipolarity and democracy.”
Xi also expressed his willingness to work with President Murmu to promote strategic mutual trust, enhance cooperation in various sectors, and ensure peace along the China-India border.
India’s Perspective on Bilateral Relations
In response, President Murmu highlighted the importance of stable and amicable ties between the two nations.
“Stable, predictable, and amicable bilateral relations will bring major benefits to both nations and the world,” she stated.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the historical and cultural ties between India and China. He noted that the two nations have “played a significant role in shaping human history and bear a significant responsibility in promoting peace and development.”
Modi also stressed that strengthening bilateral ties would contribute to global stability and the emergence of a multipolar world.
Border Issues and Steps Toward Resolution
Despite ongoing border tensions following the 2020 Galwan clashes, India and China have been making diplomatic efforts to normalize relations.
In a recent interview, PM Modi acknowledged the deep-rooted cultural ties between India and China, stating that “there’s no real history of conflict between them.”
Discussions on resuming dialogue mechanisms between the two countries took place in March. During a meeting in Beijing between India’s Joint Secretary (East Asia) Gourangalal Das and China’s Director General of Asian Affairs Liu Jinsong, both sides explored a “step-by-step” approach to resolving issues and prioritizing each other’s key concerns.
Looking Ahead
As both nations commemorate 75 years of diplomatic ties, the emphasis is on fostering stability, trust, and cooperation in various fields. Leaders from both sides have expressed optimism about steering their relationship towards a “sound and stable development path,” ensuring mutual benefits for their nations and contributing to global peace and prosperity.