New Delhi [India]: As China and India commemorate 75 years of diplomatic relations, newly-appointed Chinese Ambassador to India, Xu Feihong, has called for strengthening bilateral ties and overcoming challenges for a stable and cooperative future.
In interviews with China Daily and Global Times, Ambassador Xu highlighted the long-standing relationship between the two nations and emphasized that despite occasional fluctuations, the overall trajectory has been positive.
Trade & Economic Cooperation: Challenges & Opportunities
China remains India’s largest trading partner, with bilateral trade reaching USD 138.48 billion in 2024. However, business environment concerns persist.
Xu urged India to create a more welcoming climate for Chinese businesses, stating that fair treatment of Chinese companies in India would lead to mutual economic benefits.
“China is willing to work with India to strengthen practical cooperation in trade and other areas. We also welcome more Indian enterprises to cross the Himalayas and seek opportunities in China,” Xu told Global Times.
He reiterated China’s willingness to import more Indian products and emphasized that fostering a stable and predictable business environment would attract more investment and collaboration.
Diplomatic Engagements & Strengthening Relations
The past few months have seen significant diplomatic engagements between India and China:
- October 2024: Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Xi Jinping met in Kazan, Russia, where they pledged to strengthen bilateral ties.
- December 2024: The 23rd Meeting of Special Representatives on the India-China Boundary Question took place.
- January 2025: The Vice Foreign Minister-Foreign Secretary Dialogue was held to discuss key issues.
Xu called these interactions “unprecedented”, signaling that China-India relations are at a crucial stage of improvement and development.
“The frequent and constructive interactions between both sides in recent months mark a positive phase in the bilateral relationship,” he noted.
Historical Perspective & Future Aspirations
Xu emphasized that India was the first non-socialist country to establish diplomatic relations with China, laying the groundwork for long-term cooperation. He cited President Xi’s 2014 statement:
“If we speak with one voice, the whole world will listen; and if we join hands, the whole world will pay attention.”
Xu believes that development is the greatest common denominator between the two nations.
- China’s “Modernization” drive aims for national rejuvenation.
- India’s “Viksit Bharat” vision seeks to make India a developed nation by 2047.
“China is ready to align strategies with India, support mutual progress, and pursue shared growth as partners on the path to modernization,” he said.
Addressing Global Challenges & Strengthening People-to-People Ties
Xu urged both nations to collaborate on global issues such as:
✅ Climate Change
✅ Energy Security
✅ Terrorism
✅ Food Security
“Together, China and India can help build a fairer global order, safeguard the rights of developing nations, and contribute to peace and shared prosperity,” he asserted.
The Chinese envoy also emphasized people-to-people exchanges as a cornerstone of diplomatic ties:
- In 2024, China issued 280,000 visas to Indian nationals, a 15% increase in Q1 2025.
- More Indian students, professionals, and bloggers are engaging with China.
“From their energy, we see the future of our nations; from their curiosity and aspiration for China, we are more confident about China-India friendship,” Xu remarked.
Planned Activities for 75th Anniversary
To mark 75 years of China-India diplomatic relations, both nations plan several cultural, academic, and business exchange programs, including:
🔹 Media & Think Tank Dialogues
🔹 Track II Diplomatic Engagements
🔹 People-to-People Programs
“We are committed to furthering cultural and people-to-people exchanges, as they form the foundation of strong China-India relations,” Xu concluded.
The positive signals from both governments indicate a renewed push towards stabilizing ties and enhancing cooperation in the coming years.