Xi Jinping Hails China-India Friendship in Republic Day Message

Chinese President Xi Jinping extended warm greetings to India on its 77th Republic Day on Monday, describing China-India ties as that of “good neighbours, friends and partners.” In a message to President Droupadi Murmu, Xi referred to the two nations as the “dragon and the elephant doing tango,” highlighting Beijing’s view of the strategic relationship between the nuclear-armed neighbours.

Xi said that over the past year, relations between China and India have steadily improved and are “of great significance for maintaining and promoting world peace and prosperity,” according to Xinhua news agency. He expressed hope for expanding exchanges and cooperation, as well as addressing mutual concerns to ensure stable and healthy diplomatic ties.

The remarks come amid a gradual thaw in China-India relations, strained since the 2020 Galwan Valley clash, where 20 Indian and four Chinese soldiers lost their lives in hand-to-hand combat. Following that, the 3,800 km border saw heavy militarization, stalling bilateral engagement for four years.

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Ties began improving after a series of high-level visits last year, notably when Xi met Prime Minister Narendra Modi at the BRICS Summit in Kazan, Russia, in October 2024. Both nations have resumed direct flights, strengthened trade and investment flows, and engaged in sustained dialogue to resolve outstanding border and strategic issues.

India celebrates its 77th Republic Day on January 26, commemorating the adoption of its Constitution in 1950. The day represents the culmination of India’s struggle for independence and the establishment of governance founded on justice, liberty, equality, and fraternity, a message Xi’s remarks acknowledged through calls for regional cooperation and peaceful coexistence.

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