In a notable display of solidarity, China has voiced strong opposition to the recent tariffs imposed by the United States on India, asserting that such actions constitute "economic bullying" and that silence only emboldens the aggressor. Beijing has pledged to stand firmly with New Delhi, emphasizing the importance of cooperation between the two nations for regional and global stability.
Chinese Ambassador to India, Xu Feihong, articulated Beijing's stance, stating that the U.S. has long benefited from free trade but is now using tariffs as bargaining tools. He condemned the imposition of tariffs of up to 50% on Indian goods, coupled with threats of further increases. Xu declared that China firmly opposes these measures and will stand with India. He stressed that unity and cooperation between the two most populous countries are the only way to achieve common development. He sees India and China as "double engines of economic growth in Asia," whose partnership benefits the world at large and gives them the responsibility to lead in promoting an equal and orderly multipolar world.
This development unfolds against a backdrop of escalating trade tensions initiated by the Trump administration, which has imposed a 25% tariff on Indian goods and threatened a 50% tariff on Indian crude oil imports from Russia. These measures have been met with criticism from various quarters, with some experts cautioning that they could undermine the U.S.-India alliance and inadvertently bolster China's influence.
The warming of ties between India and China is occurring in parallel with increasing friction between New Delhi and Washington. India has described the tariffs as "unfair, unjustified, and unreasonable" and has vowed to take all necessary actions to protect its interests.
In recent weeks, India and China have signaled a thaw in their relationship, agreeing to resume direct flights, open trade gateways, and boost investments. They also addressed long-standing issues such as border tensions and cooperation in strategic sectors like rare earths. These steps indicate a mutual desire to stabilize their economies and counter uncertainties in global trade.
During a recent visit to New Delhi, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi met with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and National Security Advisor Ajit Doval, paving the way for further engagement and cooperation. Modi is scheduled to visit China later this month for the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit, marking his first visit in over seven years.
Experts suggest that the mounting U.S. tariff pressure is providing an opportunity for India and China to demonstrate their ability to push back and explore alternative options. Despite lingering mistrust, both Asian powers recognize the mutual benefits of closer cooperation in the face of global economic uncertainties.
The renewed dialogue between India and China also encompasses sensitive issues such as border demarcation and China's dam projects on the Yarlung Tsangpo River in Tibet. Both sides have expressed a commitment to maintaining peace and stability along their shared border through friendly consultations.
As the global landscape undergoes significant shifts, the evolving relationship between India and China, driven by both shared interests and external pressures, holds considerable implications for regional and global dynamics.
