Beijing: China on Monday appreciated Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s positive stance on Sino-Indian relations, emphasizing the importance of dialogue over discord. The Chinese Foreign Ministry stressed that a cooperative “dance between the elephant and the dragon” is the only way forward for mutual success.

Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning acknowledged Modi’s recent remarks in a conversation with American podcaster Lex Fridman, stating that China values India’s constructive approach towards bilateral ties.

China Highlights Modi-Xi Meeting as a Turning Point

Mao Ning referred to the October 2023 meeting between PM Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping in Kazan, Russia, calling it a key moment in providing strategic guidance for strengthening relations.

“Both sides have earnestly followed through on the important common understandings, strengthened exchanges, and achieved positive outcomes,” she said.

The spokesperson also highlighted the long history of peaceful interactions between the two civilizations, stating:

“For over 2,000 years, China and India have shared friendly exchanges, learning from each other and contributing to civilizational achievements and human progress.”

China-India Relations: A Shared Responsibility for Development

Mao Ning stressed that as the two largest developing nations, China and India share the responsibility of accelerating development and revitalization.

• 2.8 billion people stand to benefit from stronger ties.
• A stable relationship aligns with regional aspirations.
• The Global South gains strength from their cooperation.
• World peace and prosperity depend on their mutual success.

She reiterated Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi’s remarks, stating that both nations should be partners in success and work together for stability and development.

“A cooperative pas de deux, a ballet between the dragon and the elephant, is the only choice for both sides.”

China Calls for Strengthening Bilateral Ties on Diplomatic Milestone

With 2025 marking the 75th anniversary of India-China diplomatic relations, Mao Ning said China is ready to work with India to implement the leaders’ agreements and advance bilateral ties on a stable and constructive track.

Modi’s Optimism on India-China Relations

Speaking on the Lex Fridman podcast, PM Modi sounded optimistic about India-China relations, stating that normalcy has returned to the border following his discussions with President Xi.

• Differences between neighbors are natural, he said, emphasizing that both civilizations once coexisted peacefully and enriched each other’s cultures.
• He stressed that both sides are committed to ensuring disagreements do not turn into disputes, reinforcing the importance of dialogue over discord.
• Historically, India and China once contributed over 50% of the global GDP, highlighting their potential for economic synergy.

“Our cooperation is not only mutually beneficial but also essential for global peace and prosperity,” Modi said.

As both nations navigate complex geopolitical challenges, the latest diplomatic exchanges indicate a renewed focus on stability, economic cooperation, and regional peace.