Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi has called for a thaw in relations between Beijing and New Delhi, urging the two countries to view each other as “partners” rather than “adversaries or threats”. Wang made the comments ahead of a meeting with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, saying that stability had been restored at the borders following a difficult period in ties.
Wang’s visit comes after India and China agreed on patrolling arrangements to de-escalate tensions along their disputed Himalayan border in October last year. The two sides have since taken steps to normalise relations, including allowing Indian pilgrims to visit key places in Tibet this year and restarting visa services for Chinese tourists.
The rapprochement between the countries is seen as a positive trend towards cooperation, with Wang stating that China’s goal was to “move ahead from a difficult period” in their ties. India has also expressed its desire to reset relations with caution, with Foreign Minister S Jaishankar saying that talks would include global developments and efforts to maintain stability in the global economy.
The visit is being seen as a sign of a thaw in ties between the nuclear-armed neighbours, which comes at a time when tensions are rising between India and the US. The US has imposed additional tariffs on Indian imports and accused India of “cosying up” to Russia and China, sparking concerns about the impact on India’s global relationships.
Source: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c3v3ee0076no