China’s President Xi Jinping has described India and China as “good neighbours, friends, and partners,” in a message marking India’s Republic Day. He conveyed his greetings to Indian President Droupadi Murmu, emphasising the importance of continued diplomatic and economic cooperation between the two Asian giants. The announcement was reported by the Chinese state news agency Xinhua and covered by Reuters.
Xi stated, “Over the past year, China–India relations have steadily improved and developed, which is crucial for maintaining and promoting global peace and prosperity. China has always believed that being good neighbours, friends, and partners is the correct path for both our nations.”
Using a metaphor, Xi likened China–India relations to “the dragon and the elephant dancing together,” highlighting the need for coordinated communication and collaboration. He expressed hope that both nations would address each other’s concerns while building a stable and healthy bilateral relationship.
India and China, both nuclear-armed neighbours, share a border of approximately 3,800 kilometres, much of which remains undemarcated and disputed since the 1950s. The relationship faced significant tension following the 2020 border clashes in the Galwan Valley, which resulted in the deaths of 20 Indian soldiers and several Chinese troops. In the aftermath, both countries increased their military presence along the Himalayan frontier, raising regional security concerns.
However, high-level bilateral visits over the past year have signalled a thaw in relations. In 2025, direct air connectivity between the two countries was restored, facilitating trade, tourism, and people-to-people exchanges. Both nations are also prioritising economic collaboration, seeking to expand trade and investment, particularly amid rising concerns over US foreign policy assertiveness.
The key aspects of the China–India relationship are summarised in the table below:
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Shared Border | Approximately 3,800 km, partially undemarcated |
| Major Conflict | 2020 Galwan Valley clash; 20 Indian soldiers and several Chinese troops killed |
| Recent Developments | High-level bilateral visits; 2025 direct flights resumed |
| Economic Focus | Trade and investment expansion amid US policy concerns |
| Symbolic Metaphor | “Dragon and Elephant dancing together” (Xi Jinping) |
Analysts suggest that despite historical border disputes, recent diplomatic initiatives indicate both nations are committed to stabilising relations while deepening economic and strategic ties. Xi’s remarks reinforce Beijing’s view that a cooperative India–China partnership is vital for regional stability and global prosperity.