China’s President Xi Jinping has sent warm greetings to India on the occasion of its Republic Day, describing the two nations as “good neighbours, friends and partners,” according to the official Xinhua news agency. In his message to President Droupadi Murmu, Xi highlighted that China-India relations have improved over the past year, calling their partnership significant for promoting global peace and prosperity. He used the metaphor of “the dragon and the elephant dancing together” to symbolize the potential for cooperation and mutual growth. Xi emphasized the importance of expanding exchanges, deepening collaboration, and addressing each other’s concerns to maintain healthy and stable relations.
The two Asian giants share a 3,800 km border that has been contested since the 1950s. Relations were severely strained after the 2020 clash in the Himalayas, which resulted in the deaths of 20 Indian and four Chinese soldiers. In the aftermath, both sides heavily militarized the border. However, ties have gradually improved over the past year, marked by a series of high-level bilateral visits, the resumption of direct flights in 2025, and increased trade and investment flows. These steps signal a mutual interest in stabilizing relations and fostering cooperation despite broader geopolitical challenges.
Xi’s message reflects China’s ongoing effort to project a collaborative and constructive approach toward India, reinforcing the idea that sustained dialogue and partnership are crucial for regional stability and long-term prosperity. The emphasis on cooperation comes amid broader global tensions, underlining the strategic importance both countries place on managing their bilateral relationship carefully.
