India

Hindustan Times | English | News | April 3, 2025 | Geopolitical Conflict and Disputes

Chinese President Xi Jinping conveyed to Indian President Droupadi Murmu that China and India should enhance their cooperation as they commemorate the 75th anniversary of their diplomatic relations. In his congratulatory message, Xi described the relationship as a "Dragon-Elephant tango," symbolizing a harmonious partnership between their respective nations. This statement comes as both countries work to de-escalate tensions stemming from a military confrontation in Ladakh's Galwan Valley in 2020.

Xi emphasized the importance of peaceful coexistence and expressed his readiness to increase communication and coordination in major international matters. He highlighted the need for both nations to safeguard peace in border areas. Chinese foreign ministry spokesman Guo Jiakun remarked on the historical context of their relationship, referring to both nations as partners that should contribute to each other’s success.

Under the leadership of Xi and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, a strategic perspective on bilateral relations has been established, facilitating ongoing cooperation. Both nations are implementing previously agreed upon strategies to enhance mutual trust, build stronger exchanges, and advance cooperation across various sectors. Acknowledging the importance of the anniversary, Guo confirmed that specific plans for celebrations would be announced later. Recently, diplomatic discussions held on March 25 in Beijing focused on border management and resuming cross-border cooperation and exchanges.

The Economic Times | English | News | April 3, 2025 | UndeterminedTrade Issues and Numbers

The European Union is advocating for the inclusion of a "forward most-favoured-nation (MFN)" provision in its free trade agreement (FTA) negotiations with India. This provision would mandate that India extend any concessions it makes to the United States in their bilateral trade discussions to the EU as well. The push for the MFN clause emerged during recent trade negotiations in Brussels, emphasizing the linkage to ongoing tariff discussions between India and the US.

If implemented, the MFN provision would require India to uniformly apply reduced duties for all imports, a move that trade experts indicate would set a precedent among India's FTA partners due to World Trade Organization (WTO) rules against favoritism. The negotiations between India and the US are particularly crucial, especially with deadlines tied to US tariff policies. Despite these discussions, the tenth round of India-EU negotiations yielded limited progress, even as both sides expressed intentions to finalize the agreement by the end of 2025.

During the latest round of talks, specific sectors like automotive and medical devices were analyzed for market access challenges, including tariffs and rules of origin. Key topics included customs procedures for processed agricultural products and textiles but did not address the contentious issue of accessing India's government procurement market, which remains unresolved amidst India's preferences for local firms and the EU's concerns about its own businesses.

Hindustan Times | English | News | April 3, 2025 | Geopolitical Conflict and Disputes

India and China are working to improve their bilateral relations as foreign secretary Vikram Misri noted at a reception hosted by the Chinese embassy for the 75th anniversary of diplomatic ties. Misri's attendance marked a notable change from India's previous practice of sending junior diplomats or skipping such events during a prolonged military standoff along the Line of Actual Control (LAC). Significant milestones include an understanding reached in October 2024 to withdraw troops from key friction points and ongoing discussions aimed at normalizing relations.

During the event, Misri emphasized that peace and tranquility in border areas are essential for healthy bilateral relations. He acknowledged that while relations had experienced serious challenges, effective dialogue between leaders, including a meeting between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Xi Jinping, has set the stage for a stable and amicable path forward. Misri also referenced ongoing engagements, such as meetings between foreign ministers and special representatives addressing the boundary question.

Looking ahead, Misri announced initiatives to resume cooperation, including the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra pilgrimage, which has been on hold since 2020. Other discussions focus on transborder river cooperation and direct air services, aimed at enhancing people-to-people contacts. Xu Feihong, the Chinese ambassador, highlighted the importance of mutual respect and dialogue in fostering relations, noting that despite historical tensions, trade between the two countries has expanded significantly. Both officials agreed on the potential benefits of cooperation and the necessity of preventing differences from escalating into disputes.