China Applauds PM Modi’s Remarks on India-China Relations

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China Applauds PM Modi’s Remarks on India-China Relations

Dialogue Over Discord: The Dragon and Elephant Dance Together

Beijing has embraced Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s recent comments about India-China relations, focusing on dialogue instead of discord. This relationship is likened to a “ballet between the dragon and the elephant,” essential for mutual success.

PM Modi’s Hopeful Outlook on India-China Ties

  • In a 3-hour podcast conversation with Lex Fridman, PM Modi expressed optimism about the relationship between India and China.
  • He emphasized their shared history and the need to prevent “differences from turning into disputes.”
  • PM Modi pointed out that India and China once accounted for over 50% of the global GDP, stressing that cooperation between the two nations is beneficial and crucial for global peace and prosperity.

China’s Favorable Reaction

  • Mao Ning, a spokesperson for China’s foreign ministry, recognized PM Modi’s “positive” comments and highlighted the progress in bilateral ties since his meeting with President Xi Jinping in Kazan, Russia.
  • Mao emphasized that their meeting had set the strategic direction for both countries.
  • She mentioned the historical interactions between the two nations, stating, “In the 2000-plus years of history, the two countries have maintained friendly exchanges and learned from each other, contributing to civilizational achievements and human progress.”
  • Mao underscored the importance of mutual growth, adding, “The two countries should be partners that contribute to each other’s success, and a ‘cooperative pas de deux,’ a ballet between the dragon and elephant, is the only choice for both sides.”

Practical Approach to Balancing Cooperation and Competition

  • The Global Times, a Chinese state-run daily, praised PM Modi’s remarks, recognizing his push for dialogue despite past tensions.
  • The newspaper published an article quoting experts who viewed PM Modi’s statements as a “pragmatic approach” to balancing cooperation and competition with China.
  • Qian Feng, director at Tsinghua University’s National Strategy Institute, noted that since the Kazan summit, both countries have taken “positive strides” in implementing key agreements, improving diplomatic and military communications, and maintaining border stability.

Working Towards Restoring Normalcy

  • Addressing past conflicts, including the 2020 standoff in eastern Ladakh, PM Modi acknowledged that tensions had existed but said his talks with President Xi had led to progress.
  • Chinese foreign minister Wang Yi also stated that India and China should not allow their differences to control bilateral relations.
  • He added that both nations should prioritize broader cooperation and avoid letting disputes define their relationship.

Advancing Bilateral Ties

  • As the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations between India and China approaches, Beijing expressed its willingness to work with New Delhi to implement key agreements and ensure stable and healthy ties.
  • Mao reaffirmed this stance, saying, “China stands ready to work with India to advance bilateral ties on the track of stable and sound development.”