In recent statements, Xu Feihong, China’s Ambassador to India, has emphasized the necessity for India and China, two of Asia’s major developing economies, to unite against escalating tariffs and trade wars. He advocates for a multilateral trading system that benefits all, highlighting the importance of collaboration in addressing global challenges.
A Call for Cooperation
During a media address, Ambassador Feihong remarked, “Together, we should advocate an equal and orderly multipolar world and a universally beneficial and inclusive economic globalization.” His words reflect a deep-seated belief in the potential for developing nations, particularly in the Global South, to work together toward shared progress. He firmly opposes unilateralism, indicating that such approaches only serve to create division and inequality.
Feihong’s criticism extends to the United States, specifically regarding its imposition of high tariffs that he labeled as “unfair and unreasonable.” He articulated concerns that the U.S. uses trade policies as leverage to extract “exorbitant prices,” leading to a distorted global trade landscape.
Navigating Turbulent Times
Feihong’s comments resonate in the context of global socio-political changes. He stated that the world is witnessing “changes unseen in a century,” which has precipitated a new era of uncertainty. According to him, humanity stands at a crossroads, faced with choices between dialogue and conflict, cooperation and confrontation. As trade tensions escalate between nations, maintaining open lines of communication becomes essential to achieving sustainable peace.
The State of India-China Relations
Reflecting on the longstanding relationship between China and India, Feihong expressed optimism about the potential for strengthening ties. Emphasizing the importance of historical bonds, he recalled the friendship forged during the War of Resistance, urging both countries to pursue peaceful coexistence. He acknowledged that while relations have faced challenges, cooperation has prevailed as the prevailing theme over the past 75 years.
Bilateral trade has shown resilience, with figures highlighting a growth to $88 billion in the first seven months of the year, representing a 10.5% increase year-on-year. Feihong stressed that this upward trajectory is a testament to the mutual benefits of collaboration.
Engagement through Dialogue
Ambassador Feihong also celebrated recent diplomatic engagements between Chinese President Xi Jinping and Indian Prime Minister Modi, noting their face-to-face meetings in Kazan and Tianjin. These interactions, he claimed, have laid the groundwork for improved bilateral relations. The continued exchanges between foreign ministers and other high-ranking officials indicate a collective commitment to maintaining dialogue and addressing differing perspectives, particularly concerning border issues.
Visa Initiatives and Cultural Exchanges
On the cultural front, Feihong highlighted positive developments in visa issuance, noting that over 240,000 visas have been issued to Indian citizens this year by Chinese diplomatic missions. The resumption of Indian pilgrimages to significant cultural sites in China further underscores an intention to foster goodwill and revive people-to-people connections. Both nations are also working to renew tourism exchanges, signaling a desire for mutual understanding and respect.
Moving Forward
In conclusion, the ambassador’s remarks advocate for a future where China and India, as significant global players, can lead by example in matters of peace and sustainable development. The call for a cooperative approach in addressing trade issues reflects an understanding of the interconnectedness of the modern world, where vowing to uphold multilateral frameworks can pave the way for collective prosperity.
Through continued dialogue and collaboration, both nations have the opportunity to evolve their relationship into one that not only benefits their citizens but also contributes positively to global governance and stability in an increasingly complex international landscape.