In a recent interview, India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed optimism about the relationship between India and China. Despite past tensions, such as the 2020 border clash in the northern Ladakh region, which was the deadliest since a 1962 war, Modi called for stronger ties between the two nations, as evidenced by the resumption of border patrols in October. Modi met with Chinese President Xi Jinping at a Brics summit in Russia, where they pledged further cooperation. Additionally, in January, the two sides agreed to resume direct flights, marking a significant step towards normalization.

However, the India-China relationship remains strained due to various factors. This includes China’s opposition to Indian policies in the disputed Kashmir region, China’s blocking of India’s membership in the Nuclear Suppliers Group, China’s large naval presence near India, the dispute over the Belt and Road Initiative, and India’s deepening ties with Taiwan, which China views as a renegade province.

India and China are both Asia’s largest countries and view themselves as proud civilization states. They have natural competition, but recent positive developments in their relationship could bring more stability. Indias commitment to bilateral progress on other fronts could lead to a rapprochement.

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Source: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cj4nkxv4e4po