What Does Modi's Meeting with China's Wang Yi Mean for India-China Relations?

A New Chapter in India-China Relations

The recent meeting between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and China's top diplomat, Wang Yi, in New Delhi marks a pivotal moment for India-China relations. Modi acknowledged the 'steady progress' made in their bilateral ties, especially after a prolonged standoff between these two nuclear nations. This development comes at a time when both countries are adjusting to a global economy disrupted by tariffs imposed by former US President Donald Trump. Modi emphasized the importance of mutual respect for each other's interests in a social media statement following the meeting.

In a reciprocal gesture, China's Ministry of Foreign Affairs echoed Modi's sentiments, stating that both nations have embarked on a 'steady development track' and should foster trust and support for one another. The renewed focus on India-China relations coincides with tensions between New Delhi and Washington, particularly after the US imposed tariffs on India for its continued purchase of Russian oil, which the US claims supports Moscow's military efforts. India is learning the complexities of international trade and the risks associated with overly relying on the US, especially given Modi's previous attempts to appease Trump.

The US has strategically partnered with India to counterbalance China's influence in Asia, which led to India's inclusion in the Quad security alliance alongside the US, Australia, and Japan. However, India's inability to maintain a consistent stance has resulted in lost strategic partnerships. Following a deadly clash in 2020 in the Galwan region, relations between India and China deteriorated, impacting trade, diplomacy, and air travel as both nations fortified their borders with military presence. Despite these challenges, some progress has been made since then.

Wang's visit aimed to alleviate border tensions and enhance bilateral ties. Last year, both countries reached an agreement on border patrols and withdrew additional forces from certain areas. Recently, there has been an uptick in official visits and discussions aimed at easing trade restrictions, facilitating citizen movement, and expediting business visas. In June, China permitted Indian pilgrims to visit sacred sites in Tibet, and both nations are working towards restoring direct flights. India's Foreign Ministry spokesperson, Randhir Jaiswal, indicated that discussions are underway to resume trade through three points along their extensive border.

Wang also engaged with External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar and National Security Adviser Ajit Doval regarding the disputed Himalayan border. The Ministry of External Affairs reported that discussions with Doval focused on 'de-escalation, delimitation, and boundary affairs.' Wang's conciliatory approach reflects a shift in China's strategy to mend ties with India, which could benefit both nations amid the economic challenges posed by US tariffs. Notably, India bears a heavier burden than China in this regard.

Wang expressed satisfaction with the restored stability along the borders, highlighting the importance of cooperation between the two countries in light of US economic hostility. However, given the complex history of India-China relations, it is premature to fully trust China's intentions, especially after recent military operations revealed Pakistan's ability to counter India with Chinese support. India must carefully navigate its foreign policy to avoid becoming overly reliant on a powerful and unpredictable ally like the US, while also keeping avenues open with other influential nations.

There is a significant risk that China may exploit the current tensions between India and the US to further its own economic and territorial ambitions. Nevertheless, India should avoid placing all its trust in one ally, as it did with the US, and remain cautious about China's assurances of support against US tariffs while simultaneously engaging with China.