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A top Chinese official has met with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi in an effort to improve relations as both countries continue to face growing tensions with the United States.
Some shit you should know before you read: If you’re unaware, China and India have a rough relationship that stems from two key issues: a long-standing border dispute and strategic regional rivalry. The two nations fought a brief but intense war in 1962 over their contested Himalayan boundary, and sporadic clashes have occurred ever since, including the deadly 2020 confrontation in Ladakh. Beyond territorial tensions, both countries compete for influence across Asia, especially as global supply chains shift. With the United States pushing for diversification away from China, India has emerged as a leading alternative for manufacturing and investment. This has intensified economic competition, as both countries vie to become the dominant hub for global production, technology, and trade in the region.
What’s going on now: In a notable development, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi met with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi in New Delhi, marking the first time he has visited the country in over three years. According to readouts, the two spoke about key issues including the long-standing border dispute in the Himalayas. Modi reiterated India’scommitment to a “fair, reasonable and mutually acceptable resolution,” while Wang emphasized that restoring stability at the border is in the interest of both nations and that China sees the relationship as entering a “steady development track.”
Trade was also a major theme during the talks, as both sides discussed easing commercial restrictions and improving cross-border economic activity. Discussions are underway to reopen trade through three key points along their shared border, a move that could help restore pre-2020 levels of commerce. Additionally, China has pledged continued supplies of critical goods like rare earth minerals, which are vital to India’s economy.
This comes as China and India have been the target of tariffs and criticism from President Donald Trump over their trade practices, purchases of Russian oil, and their support for BRICS. Trump recently imposed additional tariffs on India for purchasing Russian oil, which he argues is fueling the war effort in Ukraine. In addition, he has hinted that the same tariffs could hit China.
