Wang Yi: China and India Should See Each Other as Partners, Not Rivals

Chinese President Xi Jinping and India Prime Minister Narendra Modi meet on the sidelines of the BRICS summit in Kazan, Russia October 23, 2024. China Daily via REUTERS /File Photo

Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi has urged India and China to embrace a spirit of partnership rather than rivalry, emphasizing the need for what he termed a “correct strategic understanding” between the two Asian giants.

Speaking during a meeting with his Indian counterpart in New Delhi on Monday, Wang highlighted Beijing’s readiness to strengthen ties under the principle of cordiality and mutual benefit.

According to a statement released by China’s Foreign Ministry, Wang stressed that cooperation between the two nations is vital not only for regional stability but also for global development.

“The two countries should view each other as partners, not rivals,” the readout stated, adding that Beijing remains committed to fostering dialogue and reducing tensions.

The meeting comes amid longstanding border disputes and strained relations that have at times disrupted trade and diplomatic engagements. However, both sides have recently signaled willingness to explore avenues of cooperation, particularly in areas of economic growth, regional security, and multilateral forums such as BRICS and the G20.

Analysts note that the renewed diplomatic engagement could mark a turning point if both governments translate rhetoric into concrete confidence-building measures.

Written By Rodney Mbua