Xi says India, China are 'friends, partners' in Republic Day greeting

Xi Jinping's Warm Republic Day Message to India

Chinese President Xi Jinping sent a heartfelt congratulatory message to Indian President Droupadi Murmu on the occasion of India's 77th Republic Day, describing China and India as "good neighbours, friends, and partners." This gesture comes at a time when relations between the two Asian giants have shown signs of steady improvement after years of tension. Xi's words, reported widely through official channels, highlight a shared vision for cooperation and mutual respect. He noted that the relationship between Beijing and New Delhi has continued to strengthen over the past year, which he views as vital for global peace and prosperity.

In his message, Xi evoked the vivid imagery of the "dragon and the elephant dancing together," a metaphor he has used before to symbolize the harmonious potential of China-India ties despite their differences. This poetic reference underscores the belief that both nations can coexist and thrive without conflict. Xi expressed hope that the two countries would deepen exchanges, expand collaboration, and address each other's concerns to ensure stable and healthy relations moving forward. Such statements from a leader of Xi's stature signal a deliberate push towards diplomacy.

From Border Clashes to Renewed Engagement

The backdrop to Xi's positive remarks is a complex history marked by a long-disputed 3,800-kilometer border that has sparked tensions since the 1950s. A major flashpoint occurred in 2020 along the Himalayan frontier in the Galwan Valley, where a fierce hand-to-hand clash resulted in the deaths of 20 Indian soldiers and four Chinese troops. That incident led to heightened militarization on both sides and strained diplomatic ties, prompting India to impose restrictions on Chinese apps like TikTok and scrutinize investments from China more closely.

"China-India relations have continued to improve and develop over the past year, which is in line with the fundamental interests of the two countries and their peoples and of great significance for maintaining and promoting world peace and prosperity."

Yet, recent developments point to a thaw. High-level visits resumed, including a key meeting between Xi and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi at the BRICS Summit in Kazan, Russia, in October 2024, where they agreed to resolve the border standoff. External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar's trip to China in July further emphasized building on this progress, including de-escalation efforts. Practical steps followed: direct flights between the two nations restarted in 2025 after a five-year hiatus, pilgrimage routes to sacred sites like Kailash Mansarovar reopened, and visa processes eased. Bilateral trade, resilient despite the frictions, has surged to around $130 billion, reflecting economic interdependence.

These moves occur against a shifting global landscape, including uncertainties from U.S. foreign policy under President Donald Trump, whose tariff threats have encouraged closer ties among trading partners. For India and China, prioritizing stability makes strategic sense as both navigate economic challenges and regional dynamics.

Broader Implications for Asia and Beyond

India's Republic Day celebrations this year featured a grand military parade in New Delhi, showcasing advanced missiles, warplanes, and new units, symbolizing national pride and readiness. Chief guests included high-profile European leaders: Antonio Costa, President of the European Council, and Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission, adding an international flavor to the event. Xi's message fits into this context of India asserting its global role while mending fences with its largest neighbor.

The emphasis on partnership could pave the way for more joint initiatives in areas like trade, technology, and climate action, where both nations have significant stakes. With their massive populations and growing economies, stable China-India relations hold promise for regional security and economic growth. Analysts see this as a pragmatic step, though challenges like border delineation persist and require sustained dialogue. As both countries look ahead, Xi's outreach reinforces the idea that cooperation outweighs confrontation.

In summary, Xi Jinping's Republic Day greeting marks a positive chapter in India-China relations, building on recent diplomatic gains to foster friendship and partnership amid shared opportunities and global uncertainties.