Historic Year for Sino-Indian Trade and Diplomacy: Ambassador Xu's Insights

Ambassador Xu heralds a new era in Sino-Indian relations, citing a record trade high and socio-cultural exchanges. With a robust economic interaction and cultural diplomacy, both nations embrace shared philosophies and cooperation under the BRICS framework, setting an optimistic tone for bilateral ties in 2026.

The 'Year of the Horse' marks a significant milestone for Sino-Indian relations, with Chinese Ambassador to India, Xu Feihong, highlighting a record bilateral trade achievement of USD 155.6 billion in 2025. At a Chinese New Year Reception in New Delhi, Xu praised the transition of relations to a 'new level of improvement' post the pivotal Tianjin meeting between leaders Modi and Xi.

Economic engagement remains a focal point, with bilateral trade experiencing over a 12% increase year-on-year. India's exports to China rose by 9.7%, emphasizing the untapped potential for cooperation between the two countries. Ambassador Xu also acknowledged China's domestic economic prowess, reporting a GDP exceeding 140 trillion yuan and contributing over 30% to global growth.

Cultural and travel ties are also recovering, with important milestones such as the resumption of Indian pilgrimages to Xizang's sacred sites. The rekindling of tourist visa issuance and flight operations between the nations underscores the return to pre-pandemic normalcy. Xu connected philosophical threads between the civilizations, citing China's vision of harmony alongside India's Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam. Highlighting shared strategies like self-reliance and support for BRICS, Xu emphasized the unity and potentiality in Sino-Indian relations.

(With inputs from agencies.)