Modi Calls for Stronger India-China Ties Amid Lingering Tensions
New Delhi – Prime Minister Narendra Modi has expressed optimism about India-China relations, stating that normalcy has returned to the disputed border and calling for deeper engagement between the two nations. His remarks come despite ongoing geopolitical tensions and the legacy of the 2020 Ladakh border clash, the deadliest conflict between the two nations since the 1962 war.
Key Points:
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China Welcomes Modi’s Remarks: Chinese foreign ministry spokeswoman Mao Ning welcomed Modi’s comments, emphasizing that both nations should be “partners that contribute to each other’s success.”
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Recent Diplomatic Engagements: Despite strained ties, India and China have continued high-level dialogues, leading to a border patrolling agreement in 2023 and the resumption of direct flights in January 2024.
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Economic Ties Remain Strong: China continues to be India’s top trade partner, with both nations cooperating in forums like BRICS and the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank.
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Security and Strategic Tensions Persist: India’s growing ties with the US and Taiwan, China’s naval presence in the Indian Ocean, and Beijing’s support for Pakistan remain sources of friction.
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Territorial Disputes and Geopolitical Alignments: China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), which runs through disputed territory, is opposed by India. Meanwhile, Beijing sees India’s participation in the Quad and Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor as attempts to counter its influence.
Future Signposts for Relations:
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Border Talks: The 2,100-mile-long disputed frontier remains the biggest test of bilateral ties. Confidence-building measures will be crucial in sustaining any progress.
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High-Level Meetings: Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping have opportunities to engage at key summits like BRICS, G20, and the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) later this year.
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Chinese Investment in India: Increased investment could help bridge India’s $85 billion trade deficit with China, supporting key industries while fostering economic interdependence.
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Regional and Global Shifts: New pro-China governments in Bangladesh, Nepal, Maldives, and Sri Lanka could influence the balance of power. Additionally, China’s future ties with Russia and potential US policy shifts under Donald Trump could reshape India’s strategic calculus.
While India and China remain natural competitors, economic interdependence, diplomatic engagement, and regional developments could determine whether Modi’s conciliatory approach leads to a true rapprochement or remains symbolic rhetoric. The coming months will be crucial in shaping the trajectory of their relationship.
