On March 7, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi stated that China and India are making significant progress in strengthening their diplomatic relations. The leaders of both countries are emphasizing the need for cooperation over conflict. According to a report by the Global Times, Wang Yi said that China has always believed that being collaborators and engaging in the "Dragon and Elephant Dance" together is the only fair option for both sides. The Dragon represents China, and the Elephant represents India, as India is referred to as the Elephant due to its large economy and slow growth.
Positive Development in Relations
Over the past year, positive developments have been seen in the relations between the two countries. In October 2024, Chinese President Xi Jinping and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's meeting in Kazan, Russia, set the strategic direction for improving relations. Wang Yi mentioned that after that, both countries actively advanced their commitments, strengthening diplomatic contact and multi-dimensional cooperation.
Resolution of Military Standoff in Ladakh
One of the most significant achievements is the resolution of the long-standing military standoff between India and China in Eastern Ladakh. At the end of last year, both countries reached an agreement to withdraw troops from Depsang and Demchok, ending the standoff that had lasted for four years. In another meeting on October 23, 2024, Modi and Xi decided to revive the existing communication mechanisms.
Continued Diplomatic Efforts
In December 2024, National Security Advisor Ajit Doval and Wang Yi met in Beijing for the 23rd Special Representative Dialogue. A month later, Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri visited China and held discussions with his counterpart Sun Weidong under the "Foreign Secretary-Vice Minister" framework. Wang Yi emphasized that the border dispute should not define the entire India-China relationship. He added that as two ancient civilizations, both countries have the wisdom and capacity to maintain peace and stability in border areas until a just and fair solution is reached.
Cooperation for Global South
Wang Yi reiterated that China and India are the largest neighboring countries and major developing economies in the world. Both should become partners in each other's success. He emphasized that they have every reason to support each other, rather than weaken or harm one another. He also commented on the global power balance, saying that both countries should take responsibility in opposing external hegemonic powers. As important members of the Global South, China and India must oppose hegemony and power politics. He believes that if China and India unite, the possibilities for greater democracy in international affairs and a stronger Global South will significantly increase.
75th Anniversary of Diplomatic Relations
The year 2025 marks the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations between India and China. Wang Yi said that China is ready to work with India to compile past experiences and accelerate the healthy and stable development of China-India relations. Although challenges remain, recent diplomatic initiatives suggest that both countries are moving toward a reality-based approach. India and China are committed to prioritizing dialogue, reducing tensions, and progressing towards coexistence as a strong partnership.