On April 1, 2025, Chinese President Xi Jinping and Indian President Droupadi Murmu exchanged congratulatory messages marking the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations between their nations. In a significant gesture, Xi emphasized that the relationship between China and India should take the form of a "Dragon-Elephant tango," symbolizing a harmonious partnership between their emblematic animals. This message comes at a time when both countries are working towards de-escalating tensions that arose from a military clash in 2020 along their shared border in the Himalayas.
During his message, Xi urged both nations to strengthen their ties and collaborate on international affairs, highlighting the importance of mutual trust and cooperation. He noted that both countries are at a critical stage of their respective modernization efforts and stressed the need for peaceful coexistence. "The development of China-India relations demonstrates that it is the right choice for China and India to be partners of mutual achievement," Xi stated, reinforcing the idea that their partnership serves the fundamental interests of both nations.
Chinese Premier Li Qiang and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi also exchanged congratulatory messages on this occasion, further solidifying the diplomatic ties between the two countries. In her message, President Murmu expressed that a stable, predictable, and friendly bilateral relationship would benefit not only India and China but also the world at large.
Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Guo Jiakun, speaking at a media briefing, reiterated that both nations are ancient civilizations and significant developing countries within the Global South. He emphasized that the historical course of their bilateral relations shows that being partners contributing to each other's success is the right choice for both sides.
Guo highlighted the importance of maintaining peace in border areas and enhancing communication on international matters, stating, "China stands ready to work with India to view and handle bilateral relations from a strategic and long-term perspective." He referenced the significant meeting between Modi and Xi at the BRICS summit in Kazan, Russia, last year, which set the direction for future cooperation.
In the lead-up to the anniversary, both countries have engaged in high-level discussions aimed at normalizing relations after the military standoff in Ladakh. On March 25, 2025, India and China held diplomatic talks in Beijing focusing on effective border management and the resumption of cross-border cooperation, including the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra. The Working Mechanism for Consultation and Coordination (WMCC) also met to explore proposals based on decisions made during the discussions between Indian National Security Advisor Ajit Doval and Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi in December.
Both sides are committed to gradually reinstating dialogue mechanisms to address mutual concerns and ensure stable development of their relationship. Guo stated that the two nations are willing to take the anniversary as an opportunity to advance bilateral relations, with specific event details to be announced later.
As tensions ease, Xi's call for a "Dragon-Elephant tango" reflects a renewed commitment to partnership and cooperation. The metaphor of the dragon and elephant not only symbolizes the two nations' unique characteristics but also highlights the potential for a collaborative approach to shared challenges.
In recent months, China has expressed its willingness to strengthen trade relations with India, aiming to balance the significant trade deficit India faces. Bilateral trade between the two countries reached $101.7 billion in the fiscal year 2023-24, with India exporting goods worth $16.6 billion, including petroleum and iron ore.
As both countries navigate their relationship, the emphasis on mutual benefit and peaceful coexistence will be crucial in shaping a stable future. The anniversary of their diplomatic ties serves as a reminder of the importance of collaboration in addressing not only bilateral issues but also global challenges.
In summary, the 75th anniversary of India-China relations marks a pivotal moment for both nations as they seek to enhance cooperation and foster a stable partnership. The messages exchanged between their leaders reflect a shared commitment to building a future characterized by trust, mutual respect, and joint efforts towards peace and development.
