India-China Relations: A Ballet Dance Between the Dragon and the Elephant

Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s recent remarks on India-China relations have drawn appreciation from China, signaling a possible shift toward stability between the two neighboring nations. The statement follows PM Modi’s interaction with US-based podcaster and computer scientist Lex Fridman, where he spoke about the return of normalcy at the India-China border after discussions with Chinese President Xi Jinping. The conversation has sparked discussions on the future of bilateral ties, the potential for long-term cooperation, and the larger geopolitical impact of improved relations between two of the world’s largest economies.

China’s Positive Response to PM Modi’s Remarks

China’s Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning responded positively to PM Modi’s statements, emphasizing the long history of friendly exchanges between the two civilizations. She highlighted that for over 2,000 years, India and China have learned from each other and contributed to civilizational progress. She noted that the recent meeting between PM Modi and President Xi in Kazan, Russia, provided strategic direction for strengthening ties between the two nations.

PM Modi’s statement during the podcast focused on ensuring that differences between the two countries do not escalate into disputes. “Our focus is to ensure that these differences don’t turn into disputes. That’s what we actively work toward. Instead of discord, we emphasize dialogue because only through dialogue can we build a stable, cooperative relationship that serves the best interests of both nations,” PM Modi said. His remarks reflect India’s approach of managing disagreements while keeping diplomatic communication open.

The 2020 Border Clashes and the Path to Stability

The India-China border conflict in eastern Ladakh in 2020 led to a significant strain in relations. Clashes at Pangong Lake and the Galwan Valley escalated tensions, leading to a halt in patrolling along certain areas of the Line of Actual Control (LAC). However, after multiple rounds of military and diplomatic discussions, both sides have made efforts to reduce tensions. In November last year, Indian and Chinese troops resumed patrolling in eastern Ladakh after a gap of over four years.

PM Modi acknowledged that while border disputes continue to exist, the recent meeting with President Xi has played a role in restoring normalcy. He stressed that both nations must focus on ensuring that border tensions do not overshadow broader areas of cooperation. China’s response has also been optimistic, with the Foreign Ministry stating that both nations have followed through on mutual agreements, strengthened exchanges, and achieved positive results.

A New Era of Cooperation: The Ballet Dance Between Dragon and Elephant

A particularly symbolic phrase used by China’s Foreign Ministry to describe the relationship between India and China is a "ballet dance between the dragon and the elephant." This phrase suggests a delicate but synchronized partnership, where both sides move cautiously but with mutual understanding. Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi has previously echoed similar sentiments, emphasizing that cooperation between the two countries is not just beneficial but essential for regional stability and global progress.

As the two largest developing countries, India and China share common goals of economic growth, technological advancement, and international influence. Together, they represent over 2.8 billion people, nearly 35% of the world’s population. Strengthening ties between these nations is not only in their best interests but also aligns with the broader objectives of the Global South.

China has expressed its willingness to work with India to build on the positive momentum created by the recent discussions. Mao Ning stated that as India and China mark the 75th anniversary of their diplomatic relations, there is an opportunity to further enhance bilateral ties in a stable and constructive manner.

Geopolitical Implications of Improved India-China Relations

The improvement in India-China relations has significant geopolitical implications. Over the past few years, India has strengthened its strategic partnerships with Western nations, including the United States, Japan, and Australia, through alliances such as the Quadrilateral Security Dialogue (Quad). Meanwhile, China has deepened its relationships with Russia and countries in the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI).

However, neither India nor China can ignore the fact that their economic and regional interests are deeply interconnected. China is India’s largest trading partner, and despite tensions, bilateral trade has continued to grow. A stable relationship would allow both countries to focus on economic collaboration rather than military confrontations.

At the same time, improved relations could also affect the regional balance of power in Asia. A more cooperative India-China relationship could shift dynamics in organizations such as BRICS and the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO), where both countries play significant roles. It could also influence China’s stance on border disputes with other neighbors and India’s approach to regional diplomacy.

Challenges and the Road Ahead

While recent statements suggest a positive direction, challenges remain in the India-China relationship. Border disputes, economic competition, and geopolitical rivalries will continue to be sources of friction. India has been cautious about China’s growing influence in South Asia, particularly its investments in Pakistan, Sri Lanka, and Nepal. Similarly, China remains wary of India’s increasing closeness to Western powers.

The real test of the current diplomatic thaw will be how both nations manage future disagreements. For long-term stability, there will need to be continued dialogue, confidence-building measures, and a commitment to resolving issues through peaceful negotiations.

PM Modi’s remarks and China’s reaction indicate that both sides recognize the importance of maintaining a working relationship. If the “ballet dance” between the dragon and the elephant is to continue smoothly, both countries must find ways to engage constructively, balancing cooperation with national interests. The coming months will reveal whether this newfound diplomatic warmth translates into concrete actions or remains limited to diplomatic statements.

Refrence From: https://www.ndtv.com/world-news/ballet-dance-between-dragon-elephant-china-reacts-to-pm-modis-comments-7943638