India-China: Amid the global trade tensions created by former US President Donald Trump’s tariff policy, India and China are gradually forming new equations. India’s Foreign Ministry has informed that the two countries have reached an agreement on several important issues. This step is being considered very important not only for bilateral relations but also for the economic stability of the whole of Asia.
Reopening of border trade routes
The biggest achievement is the agreement to reopen three specified trade routes on the border. These routes were closed for a long time, due to which small traders and the local economy of border areas were being badly affected. Now the opening of these routes will give new energy to trade, and the atmosphere of mutual trust between the two countries will also be strengthened.
Agreement on resumption of direct flights
The most relieving news for the common citizens is that direct flights between India and China will resume soon. This facility, which was stopped due to COVID and border disputes, had become a big obstacle for students, businessmen, and tourists. The resumption of flights will not only make contact and dialogue easier but will also give new impetus to investment and cultural exchange. According to the Ministry of External Affairs, flights will be resumed “very soon”.
Emphasis on maintaining peace in border areas
Going beyond trade and connectivity, both countries laid special emphasis on maintaining peace and harmony in border areas. This agreement has been reached at a time when even a small incident can turn into a big tension. A clear message was given from India that economic cooperation is possible only when security and peace are also guaranteed.
Modi and Wang Yi meet in Delhi
China’s Foreign Minister Wang Yi, who was on a visit to New Delhi, met Prime Minister Narendra Modi. During this, PM Modi said that stable and predictable relations between India and China are necessary for the peace and stability of not only South Asia but the whole world. He also reiterated that border disputes should be resolved in a fair and mutually acceptable manner.
Wang Yi conveyed President Xi Jinping’s message to Modi and invited him to the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) summit to be held in Tianjin. Modi responded positively and said that he is looking forward to meeting Xi Jinping.
New beginning in relations after deadlock
This conversation took place at a time when, just a few days ago, India and China had agreed to end the ongoing deadlock in eastern Ladakh. In the Modi-Xi meeting held in Kazan city of Russia last year, both the leaders had taken steps towards restoring dialogue mechanisms and increasing trade. This meeting in Delhi seemed to take that initiative forward.
Importance in Asia and the global scenario
India and China are the two largest emerging economies in the world. In such a situation, normalization of relations between them has a profound impact on global trade, investment, and regional security. Analysts believe that these agreements and talks are not only an attempt to bridge old cracks, but also an attempt to set the future direction.
Today, when the international system is going through new equations and protectionist policies, this cooperation between India and China suggests a practical way. Peace on the border, opening of trade routes, and restoration of direct flights not only indicate normalization, but also present a blueprint for future partnership.