Can the Dragon and Elephant Dance Together? Xi Jinping's Message to PM Modi
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Synopsis
In a significant meeting in Tianjin, Xi Jinping urges New Delhi and Beijing to foster friendship and collaboration, symbolically suggesting that the 'dragon and the elephant can dance together.' This pivotal dialogue emphasizes the historical responsibilities of both nations towards enhancing the well-being of their people and advocating for a multipolar world.
Key Takeaways
- Xi Jinping calls for stronger friendship between India and China.
- Both nations are significant members of the Global South.
- Emphasis on multilateralism and a multipolar world.
- 2025 is the 75th anniversary of diplomatic ties.
- Agreement on patrolling protocols eases border tensions.
Tianjin, Aug 31 (NationPress) Chinese President Xi Jinping expressed on Sunday that New Delhi and Beijing should "maintain a friendship" and nurture amicable relations, allowing the "dragon and the elephant to collaborate" for mutual success.
During his initial comments at the meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Tianjin, Xi highlighted that India and China are significant members of the Global South.
He underscored that both nations must take on the responsibility of enhancing the well-being of their citizens and promoting unity and rejuvenation among developing nations.
"The world today encounters unprecedented transformations. The international landscape is both unstable and tumultuous. China and India are two ancient civilizations in the East and the most populous nations globally, also being pivotal members of the Global South. We share the historical obligation to enhance the welfare of our peoples, advocate for solidarity and revitalization among developing countries, and drive advancement in human society," Xi Jinping remarked.
"It is indeed the right path for our nations to be amicable neighbors and partners, enabling each other's success, allowing the dragon and the elephant to unite," he added.
Xi emphasized that India and China must heighten their commitment to supporting multilateralism, collaborate to foster a multipolar world, enhance democracy in international relations, and contribute to peace and prosperity in Asia and internationally.
Pointing out that 2025 marks the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations between China and India, the Chinese leader stated that it is crucial for both parties to "approach and manage" their bilateral relations from a strategic viewpoint and long-term perspective to achieve "sustained, sound, and steady development" in their relations.
"We must also elevate our historical responsibility to uphold multilateralism, collaborate for a multipolar world, advance democracy in international relations, and genuinely contribute to peace and prosperity in Asia and beyond," he reiterated.
Earlier that day, PM Modi affirmed that cooperation between India and China will set the stage for the "welfare of all humanity," reaffirming New Delhi's commitment to advancing bilateral relations grounded in mutual trust, respect, and sensitivity.
He also congratulated the Chinese President on assuming the Chairmanship of the SCO.
The last interaction between the two leaders occurred on the sidelines of the BRICS Summit in Kazan, Russia, in 2024.
The dialogue breakthrough was achieved following an agreement on patrolling protocols along the 3,500-km-long Line of Actual Control (LAC), effectively easing a four-year border standoff.
Point of View
It is crucial to recognize the importance of fostering diplomatic relationships between India and China. Both nations must prioritize open dialogue and cooperation, as their partnership holds the potential to impact not only regional stability but also global dynamics. It is essential for both countries to navigate their differences with a commitment to mutual respect and understanding.
NationPress
31/08/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What did Xi Jinping say about India-China relations?
Xi Jinping emphasized the importance of maintaining friendship and collaboration between India and China, urging both nations to work together for mutual success.
What is the significance of the year 2025 for China and India?
The year 2025 marks the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations between China and India, highlighting the need for sustained and strategic development in their bilateral ties.
How do Xi Jinping and PM Modi view multilateralism?
Both leaders stressed the importance of upholding multilateralism and working towards a multipolar world, advocating for democracy in international relations.
When did the last engagement between Xi and Modi occur?
The last engagement took place on the sidelines of the BRICS Summit in Kazan, Russia, in 2024.
What was the breakthrough achieved in the dialogue?
A breakthrough was achieved with an agreement on patrolling protocols along the Line of Actual Control (LAC), easing a four-year border confrontation.
