China's envoy to India, Xu Feihong, has condemned hefty US tariffs on India and advocates for deeper economic collaboration between the two nations.
Beijing Slams US Tariffs on India, Calls for Strengthened China-India Ties
Beijing Slams US Tariffs on India, Calls for Strengthened China-India Ties
Chinese ambassador criticizes US trade tactics as detrimental to global cooperation at event in Delhi.
Chinese Ambassador to India, Xu Feihong, voiced strong opposition to the United States' recent heavy tariffs on India during a speech in Delhi on Thursday. He branded the US as a "bully" and criticized its use of tariffs as a means to leverage trade negotiations unfairly. Notably, the US has imposed tariffs reaching as high as 50% on imports from India, prompting Xu to emphasize the need for solidarity among nations.
"The US has imposed tariffs of up to 50% on India and even threatened further increases. Silence only emboldens the bully," Xu declared, discussing the economic ramifications of these trade barriers.
In a broader context, the remarks come on the heels of former President Donald Trump's imposition of a 25% penalty on India, in addition to an equal rate on purchases of oil and arms from Russia. This new tariff framework is set to take effect on August 27, stirring discontent amid India's rising reliance on affordable Russian crude due to the ongoing Ukraine conflict. The US’s stance has strained diplomatic ties and complicated trade negotiations between the two nations.
India has defended its oil imports from Russia, arguing the necessity of securing the most cost-effective crude to alleviate burdens on its population. Its position is fortified by claims that the Biden administration had previously encouraged India to maintain Russian oil imports to stabilize global energy markets.
Despite sustained pressure from the US, a revitalization of India-China relations seems to be unfolding. Diplomatic ties had previously soured following violent clashes in the Galwan Valley in 2020. Recent outreach—including a two-day visit to Delhi by Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi—has indicated a pivot toward peace and collaboration, with calls for both nations to see one another as partners instead of adversaries.
During his remarks in India, Xu characterized both countries as "double engines" of economic advancement within Asia and highlighted that cooperation between them stands to benefit global interests. He also extended invitations for more Indian companies to invest in China, expressing hope that Indian authorities would establish a level playing field for Chinese businesses.
"Tariff and trade wars are currently undermining the global trading system; we must uphold the multilateral trading framework centered around the World Trade Organisation (WTO)," Xu concluded. His statements coincided with expectations surrounding Prime Minister Narendra Modi's anticipated participation in the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation summit in China, an occasion that he suggested could further bolster China-India relations.
