Beijing/New Delhi, August 19, 2025 — China has encouraged India to adopt a cooperative rather than adversarial stance in their bilateral relations, calling on New Delhi to see Beijing as an equal partner rather than as a competitor in regional and global affairs. China made this plea amid ongoing tensions at their disputed border and ongoing competition on economic, political, and strategic fronts between both Asian powers.
Lin Jian, spokesperson for China’s Foreign Ministry in Beijing, asserted at a diplomatic forum that relations between two of the world’s most populous nations should be defined by “mutual respect, peaceful coexistence and shared development goals”. Lin stressed that framing ties through rivalry-fueled lens restrict opportunities to collaborate on pressing issues like economic growth, climate change adaptation and regional stability.
“China and India should not become adversaries; instead they should look towards collaboration rather than competition for future development,” Lin stated.
Historical Fictions and New Overtures.
China and India’s relations have long been marked by mistrust, especially along the Line of Actual Control (LAC), where clashes and military stand-offs have periodically strained diplomatic ties. A fatal skirmish in Galwan Valley in 2020 marked one of the lowest points, prompting both nations to reinforce their military presence in Himalayan regions.
China has expressed its willingness to stabilize relations despite these tensions, insisting that differences over borders should not overshadow broader areas of cooperation. Lin cited successful economic collaborations, growing trade exchanges and joint efforts within multilateral organizations such as BRICS and Shanghai Cooperation Organization as indicators of shared interests that should serve as guides for future relations between both nations.
Economic Interdependence
China remains one of India’s top trading partners, surpassing $140 billion in bilateral trade between 2024-2025. While the trade deficit remains an issue for New Delhi, Beijing officials argue that greater integration of supply chains and mutual investments may yield win-win results in various fields like clean energy production, digital infrastructure development and green technologies where both countries could pool resources and expertise to achieve mutual gains.
“China and India can work together to maximize their own development while contributing to global economic recovery and sustainable growth,” Lin stated.
Strategic Issues and Regional Dynamics
Observers observe that India’s increased alignment with the United States through groups like Quad, Japan and Australia has heightening Beijing’s fears about being encircled. India itself has also grown increasingly wary of China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), particularly projects passing through Pakistan-occupied Kashmir which it sees as violating their sovereignty.
Though these disagreements persist, Chinese officials believe cooperation is still possible as long as both sides focus on constructive dialogue instead of zero-sum competition. Lin reaffirmed Beijing’s willingness to maintain communication through diplomatic and military channels to reduce misperceptions and avoid escalated situations.
India Reacts Pending
Although New Delhi has not provided its official response to China’s latest comments, Indian officials have previously highlighted the significance of mutual trust and peace along the border as prerequisites to normalizing relationships. Analysts expect India will remain cautious with regards to engaging China while expanding strategic relationships elsewhere.
China’s call reveals its desire to mend relations with its southern neighbor, stressing the importance of partnership in an ever-evolving global landscape.