China-India relations have improved, must be maintained, foreign minister says

Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi has emphasized the critical importance of maintaining positive momentum in China-India relations, highlighting recent diplomatic progress between the two Asian powers. Speaking at a press conference during the fourth session of the 14th National People’s Congress in Beijing on Sunday, Minister Wang articulated a vision of strengthened cooperation through correct strategic perception and neighborly friendship.

The top diplomat noted that bilateral relations experienced a significant reset during the Kazan meeting, with subsequent improvements achieved at the Tianjin meeting. Wang stressed that mutual trust and collaboration between Beijing and New Delhi directly benefit both nations’ development trajectories, while division and confrontation would negatively impact Asia’s broader rejuvenation.

Minister Wang positioned enhanced China-India cooperation as crucial for substantiating BRICS collaboration and providing renewed hope for Global South nations. His comments reflect China’s ongoing diplomatic efforts to stabilize relations with its southern neighbor amid complex geopolitical dynamics. The emphasis on development-focused partnership suggests both economic and strategic considerations in managing one of Asia’s most consequential bilateral relationships.

The address comes as both nations navigate border tensions while seeking expanded economic cooperation. Wang’s framing of the relationship emphasizes shared interests in regional stability and development, positioning constructive China-India relations as beneficial for broader Asian prosperity and South-South cooperation initiatives.