Chinese President Xi Jinping extended greetings to India on the occasion of its 77th Republic Day, describing India and China as good neighbours, friends and partners. The message, sent to President Droupadi Murmu, highlighted Beijing’s interest in improving bilateral relations and strengthening cooperation between the two Asian nations.
In his congratulatory note, Xi said that China is willing to work with India to move the relationship forward in a positive and stable direction. He stressed that cooperation between the two countries is important not only for their own development but also for regional stability and global peace. According to Xi, maintaining friendly ties serves the long-term interests of both nations and the wider international community.
Referring to the symbolic phrase often used in diplomatic exchanges, Xi said the “dragon and elephant” should work together, suggesting that mutual respect and collaboration between the two large neighbours can create shared opportunities. He added that China values dialogue and practical cooperation and hopes both sides will address concerns through communication.
The message comes at a time when India-China relations have shown signs of gradual improvement after years of strain following the 2020 military standoff in eastern Ladakh. While disengagement talks and diplomatic discussions have continued, trust has remained fragile. However, recent developments, including high-level meetings and the resumption of some exchanges, have indicated efforts to stabilise ties.
Xi also noted that the past year had seen positive momentum in bilateral engagement. He expressed hope that both countries would expand cooperation in areas such as trade, people-to-people exchanges and regional issues, while managing differences responsibly.
The Republic Day greeting is seen as a diplomatic signal from Beijing, underlining its intent to maintain constructive engagement with New Delhi. Observers say such messages, though symbolic, help set the tone for future dialogue and reinforce the importance of communication between the two governments.
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