China’s renewed push for cooperation with India amidst US trade war

New Delhi, Mar 7: The Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi yesterday gave a statement on India that political observers suggest is a signal Beijing is showcasing to renew a cooperative relationship with New Delhi. The statement was given at a time when U.S.-China relations remain strained due to an escalating tariff war coinciding with China’s increasingly volatile relations with Washington. At the same time, India, while maintaining its firm stance on border security, has not shut the door to diplomatic engagement, as evidenced by External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar’s Wednesday interaction at Chatham House in London.

Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi’s remarks present a softened stance on India, emphasising cooperation over competition. “China has always believed that being mutually supportive partners and achieving the ‘Dragon and Elephant Dance’ is the only correct choice for both sides,” Wang stated reflecting Beijing’s long-standing rhetoric of economic and strategic synergy.

Wang’s remarks come at a time when China is navigating an increasing trade and geopolitical rivalry with the United States. Facing pressure from Washington, Beijing is looking to stabilise relations with key Asian partners and India is one amongst them given its economic potential and growing global influence, is a natural candidate. The foreign minister’s reference to the Global South further illustrates China’s attempt to frame India as a partner in challenging Western hegemony.

He stressed that “there is every reason for us to support each other rather than undercut each other, work with each other rather than guard against each other.” The remarks signal China’s desire to prevent tensions with India from overshadowing broader strategic objectives, such as regional trade and global governance.

Indian is yet to response however, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar Speaking at Chatham House early this week in London reiterated New Delhi’s key concern - border stability. “Peace and tranquillity in border areas are vital for the relationship to flourish.” Dr Jaishankar made it clear while answering questions from the high profile audience making it clear that while India is open to dialogue, unresolved border tensions will inevitably impact diplomatic engagements. India’s stance has been consistent since the Galwan Valley clash in 2020, which resulted in death of soldiers and relationship just freeze between the two countries.

However, signs of thawing relations have emerged in recent months. Both nations have resumed discussions on restoring direct flights and facilitating trade, following Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s talks with President Xi Jinping last October 2024 during the BRICS summit held in Kazan, Russia. This meeting marked their first formal bilateral engagement in five years aimed that helped in easing the longstanding military standoff between the two Himalayan countries.

Additionally, National Security Adviser Ajit Doval and Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri have engaged in discussions with their Chinese counterparts on key issues, including border management and economic cooperation.

Jaishankar’s comments at Chattam House were a reminder that while India is not opposed to improving ties, however, it will not overlook security concerns in pursuit of economic or strategic gains.

The message from Dr Jaishankar is clear - China’s willingness to engage must be matched with tangible steps towards de-escalation along the borders and need to respect the previous border agreements at all costs.

Political analysts however say that the timing of China’s diplomatic push towards India is significant as it provides strategic benefits to China at the time when Beijing struggles with economic challenges and diplomatic friction with Washington.

India perhaps is not against and understands the importance of keeping its engagement with China balanced, however, India wants to ensure that it does not get drawn into an exclusive geopolitical alignment with either the US or China.

While Wang Yi’s remarks signal China’s intent to mend ties, Jaishankar’s statement highlights India’s strategic patience.  A political observer is of the opinion that a complete reset remains unlikely in the near future, but incremental progress, such as resuming flights and trade suggests both nations see value in preventing further deterioration.

The coming months will definitely test the sincerity of China’s diplomatic advances. For India, the priority remains clear, any progress in relations must align with its core national interests and ensuring border stability. As both nations navigate a fast evolving global order, cooperation and competition will continue to shape the India-China dynamic in the years ahead.