Chinese President Xi Jinping has described China and India as “good neighbors, friends and partners,” emphasizing the importance of strengthening bilateral relations between the two Asian giants.
Xi made the remarks while extending greetings to Indian President Droupadi Murmu on the occasion of India’s Republic Day, according to China’s state news agency Xinhua. The news was also reported by Reuters.
In his message, Xi said that China–India relations had “steadily improved and developed” over the past year, noting that such progress is vital for maintaining and advancing global peace and prosperity. He stressed that China has always believed that being good neighbors, friends and partners is the right path for both countries.
Using a metaphor, Xi likened the relationship between the two nations to a “dance between the dragon and the elephant,” expressing hope that both sides would further enhance communication and cooperation. He also urged Beijing and New Delhi to address each other’s concerns and work toward building a healthy and stable relationship.
China and India share a 3,800-kilometer-long border that remains largely undemarcated and has been disputed since the 1950s. Tensions escalated sharply after a deadly clash in the Galwan Valley in 2020, in which 20 Indian and four Chinese soldiers were killed. Following the incident, both sides significantly increased their military presence along the Himalayan frontier.
However, efforts to improve ties have gained momentum since last year through high-level bilateral visits. In 2025, direct flights between the two countries were resumed, signaling a thaw in relations. Against the backdrop of what was described as aggressive U.S. policies, China and India have also shifted their focus toward boosting trade and investment.
The latest remarks by Xi underscore a renewed diplomatic push by both sides to stabilize relations and enhance cooperation despite lingering border disputes and strategic mistrust.
