China and India Pledge to Enhance Ties Following Summit
BEIJING – China and India have agreed to hold another summit meeting to build upon recent progress in improving bilateral relations, signaling a potential thaw in ties marked by years of border disputes and trade imbalances.The commitment emerged following discussions between Chinese Premier Li Qiang and Indian Ambassador Pradeep Kumar Rawat in Beijing, according to a report by Reuters.
The move comes as both nations seek to stabilize a complex relationship crucial to regional stability and global economic growth. While notable challenges remain, including ongoing border tensions and trade barriers, the renewed dialog suggests a willingness to address these issues and foster greater cooperation. this latest development builds on a series of high-level engagements initiated after a period of heightened friction,especially following clashes along the Line of Actual Control in 2020.
Reuters reported that discussions included a focus on tariffs, with both sides expressing a desire to find mutually beneficial solutions.While specific details regarding tariff reductions were not disclosed, the acknowledgement of the issue represents a step forward. Trade between China and India totaled $135.95 billion in 2023, with a trade deficit of $76.1 billion in favor of China, according to Chinese customs data.
The Chinese Foreign Ministry stated that Li emphasized the importance of viewing each other’s development as an opportunity rather than a threat. He also urged both countries to manage their differences constructively and promote peace and stability along the border. Ambassador Rawat reportedly conveyed India’s commitment to a stable and prosperous relationship with China, based on mutual respect and understanding.
Laurie Chen, a China Correspondent at Reuters’ Beijing bureau, reported that this latest engagement follows six years of reporting on China for Agence france-Presse and the South China Morning Post in Hong Kong. She speaks fluent Mandarin.