Chinese Ambassador to India Xu Feihong has urged both Delhi and Beijing to resist tariff and trade wars, emphasizing the need to strengthen economic and diplomatic ties between the two nations. Speaking at a public event in New Delhi on Tuesday, Ambassador Xu stressed the importance of opposing hegemony, power politics, and any form of trade conflicts.

Xu highlighted the growing economic and trade relationship between China and India, noting the significant potential for further cooperation. He stated that China is ready to collaborate with India to enhance mutually beneficial cooperation across various sectors, aiming to expand common interests and deepen mutual understanding and friendship at all levels.

These remarks come against the backdrop of escalating global trade tensions, particularly those stemming from the United States' "reciprocal tariff" policies under President Donald Trump. The U.S. has imposed a 50% tariff on Indian exports, including a 25% "reciprocal tariff" and an additional 25% penalty allegedly due to India's continued purchase of Russian oil. The Trump administration has claimed that Beijing and New Delhi are indirectly funding the Russia-Ukraine war, as they are the largest buyers of Russian crude oil.

Amid these global challenges, Ambassador Xu proposed a four-point approach to advance relations between India and China, emphasizing mutual respect, trust, and peaceful coexistence. He underscored that the boundary situation should not define the current relationship and advocated for expanding bilateral trade.

Xu also addressed the importance of managing differences through dialogue and strengthening strategic trust between the two countries, emphasizing that they are partners, not rivals. He noted that unity and cooperation are essential for achieving common development and that friendship between China and India benefits Asia and the world.

Furthermore, Xu criticized the U.S.'s tariff policies, calling them "unfair and unreasonable". He argued that the U.S. has long benefited from free trade but is now using tariffs as a weapon to demand exorbitant prices. He stated that China firmly opposes the 50% tariff on India.

Ambassador Xu also extended an invitation to Indian businesses to invest in Beijing and promote their products in China. He assured that China is ready to work with India to strengthen mutually beneficial cooperation in various fields and make a "bigger pie" of common interests. He also expressed hope that India would provide a fair, just, and non-discriminatory business environment for Chinese enterprises.

In light of the 76th anniversary of the founding of China, Xu emphasized the importance of both countries jointly defending the common interests of the Global South and building a community with a shared future for humanity. He also mentioned the significant number of visas issued to Indian citizens by Chinese embassies and consulates in India, demonstrating a commitment to advancing friendly exchanges.

Ambassador Xu's statements reflect China's commitment to strengthening ties with India and promoting a more equitable and cooperative global trade environment. He reiterated that China and India should prioritize development, foster mutual support, and strive for mutual success.