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China and India Seek to Strengthen Strategic Partnership Amid Global Shifts
New Delhi – In a significant move signaling a thaw in relations, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi has called for a renewed and strengthened strategic partnership with India. The high-level visit comes just ahead of Prime Minister Narendra Modi\’s anticipated trip to China for the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit, marking a new chapter in the complex relationship between the two Asian giants.
During his meetings in New Delhi with External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar and National Security Advisor Ajit Doval, Wang Yi emphasized the need for China and India to view each other as partners, not rivals. This sentiment echoes the understanding reached between PM Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping during their meeting last year, which provided the impetus for a revival of dialogue and cooperation.
Key Highlights of Wang Yi’s Visit
Positive Momentum & De-escalation
Both sides acknowledged the recent progress in bilateral ties, including the gradual resumption of dialogue at various levels and ongoing efforts to maintain peace and tranquility along the Line of Actual Control (LAC). EAM Jaishankar reiterated India\’s firm stance on the necessity of de-escalation along the border, highlighting that peace and tranquility are the foundation for any positive momentum in the relationship.
Economic & Trade Cooperation
Discussions also focused on key economic and trade issues. Wang Yi reportedly provided assurance on addressing India\’s concerns regarding the supply of essential materials like rare earths and fertilizers, signaling a potential easing of trade restrictions. This move is crucial for India\’s domestic industries and shows a willingness to address long-standing economic imbalances.
Global Responsibility
As the world\’s two most populous developing nations, both ministers stressed the shared responsibility of China and India to contribute to a multipolar world order and address global challenges. This includes the need to safeguard international economic stability and promote global peace.
Setting the Stage for Modi’s Visit
The visit successfully sets the stage for PM Modi\’s attendance at the upcoming SCO summit in Tianjin, China. NSA Doval confirmed the Prime Minister\’s trip, which will be his first in seven years, and presents a key opportunity for a bilateral meeting with President Xi Jinping. Such a meeting could be pivotal in cementing the newfound diplomatic momentum.
This diplomatic exchange marks a critical step towards mending relations that have been strained since the 2020 border standoff. By focusing on mutual respect and interest, both nations are looking to build a stable and constructive relationship that serves not only their own long-term interests but also contributes to regional and global peace and prosperity. The road ahead is long, but Wang Yi\’s visit has laid the groundwork for a more cooperative future.
