China and India urged to strengthen partnership by Foreign Minister Wang Yi

Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi emphasizes the importance of viewing India and China as allies during his recent diplomatic visit to India.

Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi has called for a paradigm shift in the relationship between China and India, advocating for both nations to act as "partners" rather than viewing each other as "adversaries". This statement came during his two-day visit to New Delhi, marking only the second high-level meeting between the two foreign ministers since the tensions erupted in the Galwan Valley in 2020.

In discussions with Indian Foreign Minister S Jaishankar, Yi expressed optimism that bilateral ties are trending toward cooperation. Jaishankar acknowledged the necessity of moving beyond the past difficulties the two nations have faced, and highlighted various topics discussed, including trade, pilgrimages, and the crucial matter of river data sharing.

The two diplomats plan to meet with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday, while Yi is also expected to confer with National Security Advisor Ajit Doval, focusing on the ongoing boundary dispute between the two countries. The trip signals a potential thawing of relations between the nuclear powers, particularly after they agreed last October on new patrol protocols to ease border tensions.

Progress has been achieved towards normalizing relationships, including China's recent decision to welcome Indian pilgrims to Tibet, the resumption of visa services for Chinese tourists in India, and potential restoration of direct flights between the two, further enhancing connectivity.

Wang Yi's visit is seen as preparatory ground for Prime Minister Modi's upcoming trip to China for the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit, his first visit to the country in seven years. Although a meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping has not been confirmed, speculation remains high regarding possible bilateral discussions.

The renewed emphasis on cooperation coincides with challenges in India's ties with the United States, following the imposition of hefty tariffs on Indian imports by President Trump. Criticism has arisen from U.S. officials regarding India's relations with both Russia and China, with calls for India to align more closely with the U.S. as a strategic ally.

Jaishankar, following the meeting, stated that global developments would also form part of future discussions, emphasizing the need for a balanced and multipolar world, alongside a commitment to a stable global economy.