On Thursday, Xu Feihong, China’s ambassador to India, emphasized the need for enhanced strategic trust and increased cooperation between New Delhi and Beijing, urging that the two neighboring nations should regard one another as partners instead of competitors.
“China and India ought to strengthen strategic mutual trust and eliminate mutual suspicion. Both nations are allies, not adversaries. We must address our differences through dialogue,” Xu stated.
He also underscored the significance of unity and collaboration between the two Asian powers, asserting that constructive engagement would contribute to stability and promote shared interests.
“Silence only empowers the aggressor.”
While speaking in New Delhi, Xu accused Washington of hypocrisy, asserting that the US has long profited from free trade but is now weaponizing tariffs as negotiation tools.
Xu further remarked, “The US has long benefited from free trade but now employs tariffs as bargaining chips. The US has imposed tariffs of up to 50% on India. China strongly opposes this. Silence only empowers the aggressor. China will steadfastly support India.”
In discussing the broader geopolitical landscape, Xu Feihong stated, “The world is currently undergoing a tumultuous phase; the international order is experiencing the most significant transformation since World War II… At this time of upheaval and change, the importance of China-India relations has become increasingly clear. Cooperation between China and India is advantageous for both nations.”
The ambassador also pointed out advancements in people-to-people exchanges, stating, “China has resumed the visits of Indian pilgrims to the sacred mountain and lake, and India has restarted issuing tourist visas to Chinese citizens.
Looking forward, Xu Feihong expressed hope regarding Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s forthcoming visit to China for the SCO Summit, stating, “In the near future, PM Modi will visit China to participate in the SCO Summit. I am confident that this visit will provide new momentum for China-India relations.
This follows the meeting between Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi and Prime Minister Modi on Tuesday, during which a message and an invitation from President Xi Jinping for the summit in Tianjin were delivered, offering context for the forthcoming visit.
The Prime Minister expressed gratitude to President Xi for the invitation to the SCO Summit and confirmed his acceptance. The SCO summit is scheduled to take place in Tianjin from August 31 to September 1.
