On the occasion of India's 77th Republic Day, Chinese President Xi Jinping sent a congratulatory message to Indian President Droupadi Murmu, signaling a potential thaw in relations between the two Asian giants. Xi characterized China and India as "good neighbours, friends and partners," and expressed optimism for stronger cooperation between the two nations.
In his message, reported by China's state news agency Xinhua, Xi Jinping noted the continuous improvement and development of China-India relations over the past year. He underscored the "great significance" of this relationship for maintaining and promoting world peace and prosperity. Xi reiterated China's consistent belief that being "good neighbours, friends and partners" is the optimal choice for both countries.
Xi Jinping invoked the metaphor of the "dragon and the elephant dancing together," framing bilateral ties as a partnership between two rising civilizations capable of shaping the global order. He expressed his hope that both sides would expand exchanges and cooperation, address each other's concerns, and promote healthy and stable relations.
These remarks come as both countries are cautiously working to rebuild relations following years of tension stemming from deadly border clashes and sustained military standoffs in the Himalayas. A violent clash in 2020, which resulted in fatalities on both sides, marked the lowest point in relations in decades. Since then, both countries have heavily militarized the frontier, leading to embedded distrust.
Over the past year, New Delhi and Beijing have taken steps toward stabilization, including the resumption of high-level diplomatic engagements and the restoration of direct flights in 2025. Trade and investment flows have also increased, reflecting a pragmatic recognition of mutually beneficial economic engagement despite strategic rivalry.
Despite the conciliatory tone, "deep structural issues remain". China and India share a 3,800-kilometer border that has been disputed since the 1950s and remains poorly demarcated.
Indian missions across China marked Republic Day with ceremonial events and cultural programs in Beijing and Shanghai. In Shanghai, Consul General of India Pratik Mathur led the celebrations, highlighting the growing momentum in India-China relations, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to China in August 2025, the resumption of daily direct flights, the restart of tourist visas, and renewed growth in bilateral trade and investment. Mathur also mentioned India hosting key global events and reaffirmed India's commitment to "Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam — the world as one family".
