Xi Jinping Greets India on Republic Day, Calls New Delhi a “Good Neighbour and Partner
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| Ap |
China’s President Xi Jinping on Monday extended Republic Day greetings to President Droupadi Murmu, describing India as a “good neighbour, friend and partner” and underlining the growing importance of stable ties between the two Asian giants.
According to China’s state-run news agency Xinhua, President Xi said relations between China and India had continued to improve over the past year and were playing a meaningful role in promoting global peace and economic stability.
In his message, Xi emphasised that cooperation between the world’s two most populous nations was essential in a rapidly changing international environment.
“Dragon and Elephant Dancing Together”
Referring to the symbolic imagery often used to describe China-India ties, Xi said both countries should move forward as the “dragon and the elephant dancing together,” highlighting harmony and mutual respect.
He added that China has consistently believed that maintaining friendly and cooperative relations with India is the right strategic choice for both sides.
The Chinese leader also expressed hope that the two countries would strengthen people-to-people exchanges, expand economic cooperation, and address each other’s concerns through dialogue.
“Healthy and stable relations are in the shared interest of both nations,” Xi was quoted as saying.
Background of Strained Relations
Relations between India and China witnessed a major setback in 2020 following a violent clash in eastern Ladakh, in which soldiers from both sides were killed. The incident marked the most serious military confrontation between the two countries in decades.
Following the clash, both nations deployed thousands of troops, tanks, and artillery along the disputed Himalayan frontier, turning the region into one of the most heavily militarised borders in the world.
The 3,800-kilometre-long boundary between India and China remains largely undefined in several sectors, and disagreements over its alignment have persisted since the 1950s.
Gradual Thaw in Ties
Over the past year, however, New Delhi and Beijing have taken steps to stabilise relations through sustained diplomatic engagement and high-level meetings.
Officials from both sides have held multiple rounds of military and diplomatic talks aimed at disengagement and confidence-building measures along the border.
In 2025, direct commercial flights between the two countries were restored after a prolonged suspension, reflecting cautious progress in bilateral ties.
Trade and investment links have also witnessed renewed momentum, with businesses from both sides exploring opportunities in manufacturing, technology, and infrastructure.
Global Context and Strategic Importance
Analysts say Xi’s message comes at a time when global geopolitical alignments are undergoing major shifts, particularly amid tensions involving major powers.
With the United States adopting a more confrontational foreign policy stance in recent years, regional cooperation among Asian economies has gained renewed importance.
China and India, as key members of groupings such as BRICS and the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation, play a significant role in shaping the future of the Global South.
Xi’s remarks signal Beijing’s interest in keeping bilateral relations on a constructive path while managing long-standing differences.
India’s Diplomatic Approach
India has consistently maintained that peace and tranquillity along the border are essential for the overall development of ties with China.
New Delhi has stressed that bilateral relations cannot be normalised fully unless the situation in the border areas stabilises.
At the same time, India has continued engagement with China through multilateral forums and diplomatic channels, seeking a balanced and pragmatic approach.
Our Thoughts
President Xi’s Republic Day message reflects a renewed emphasis on cooperation and dialogue between Asia’s two largest nations. While challenges remain, especially on the border front, sustained engagement offers a pathway toward long-term stability.
The coming months will be crucial in determining whether positive diplomatic signals translate into deeper trust and durable peace.