Amid rising geopolitical tensions worldwide, particularly in West Asia, China appears to be recalibrating its stance. Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi indicated that Beijing seeks closer friendship with India, urging both nations to see each other not as rivals but as partners committed to mutual cooperation. He made these remarks during a press briefing at the 14th National People’s Congress session in Beijing.
Wang Yi emphasized that India and China are key members of the “Global South,” sharing deep cultural ties and broad common interests. He expressed hope that mutual trust and cooperation would propel Asia along a path of development, while warning that divisions and conflicts could hinder the continent’s revitalization. Normalization of bilateral relations, he said, represents a positive development for the region.
Recalling the meeting between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Xi Jinping in Tianjin last August, Wang Yi highlighted its role in strengthening bilateral ties. Agreements reached during that summit are now being implemented at the ground level, contributing to record levels of trade between the two nations. Wang Yi also stressed the importance of coordination through BRICS, noting that India holds the BRICS presidency this year, with China set to assume it next year, which could positively influence the global economy.
China’s renewed engagement with India comes amid growing economic pressures, including U.S. sanctions, the Russia-Ukraine war, and the Iran crisis. To navigate these challenges and maintain its influence in Asia, Beijing sees strong relations with a major market and strategic partner like India as increasingly urgent.