by Uma Shankar Singhal
Secretary of Indian Newspaper and Journalist Society, India
The relationship between India and China is deeply rooted in history, with interactions dating back over five thousand years. This long-standing connection was significantly highlighted when India’s first Prime Minister, Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru, coined the phrase “Hindi-Chini Bhai-Bhai,” emphasizing the brotherly bond between the two nations. Nehru’s vision granted China a special place in Indian foreign policy, reflecting a desire for close and amicable ties. Today, the narrative surrounding China is often colored by Western perspectives, which can sometimes be skewed. Western nations have their reasons for promoting a particular view of China, often highlighting human rights issues and political differences. This portrayal can obscure the reality of China, especially to those who have not experienced the country firsthand. The Western narrative may also be influenced by a reluctance to see India and China form a strong alliance, as such a partnership between the world’s two most populous and rapidly developing economies could challenge Western dominance. However, the youth of India have a more nuanced understanding of China. They recognize the potential for cooperation and mutual growth and are eager to engage with China to strengthen their own country’s position on the global stage. This emerging generation sees China not as a rival but as a partner in progress.
Cultural and Educational Ties
The cultural and trade relations between India and China have always been robust. In recent years, educational exchanges have further strengthened these ties. Many Indian students are pursuing higher education in China, contributing to a rich exchange of knowledge and culture. This educational bridge not only enhances individual prospects but also fortifies the bilateral relationship at a fundamental level. The Chinese language plays a crucial role in fostering this understanding. Every year, “Chinese Language Day” is celebrated globally, reflecting the language’s growing influence. Over 180 countries have introduced Chinese language education, and it is included in the national education systems of 83 countries. More than 30 million people worldwide are learning Chinese, helping to bridge cultural gaps and promote a deeper understanding of Chinese history and culture. For centuries, the Chinese philosophical notion that “everyone belongs to one and the same family in a harmonious world” has guided the nation’s outlook. Ancient Chinese texts, such as “The Book of Rites,” espouse the idea that wise individuals view the world as a single family. This philosophy, advocating for harmony among all people and nations, has long been a cornerstone of Chinese thought.
Shared Future
President Xi Jinping has expanded upon this ancient wisdom with his concept of “a community with a shared future for mankind.” He emphasizes that the destinies of all individuals and nations are intertwined. By working together, we can build a harmonious global family and realize the collective dream of a better life for all. Culture and civilization, he asserts, play roles as crucial as economy, science, and technology in achieving this vision. India and China, as ancient civilizations with rich histories and vibrant cultures, exemplify this ideal. The long history of friendly exchanges between our two nations serves as a model for intercultural dialogue. Nearly two millennia ago, Indian monks such as Dharmaratna and Kasyapa Matanga traveled to China, bringing with them the teachings of Buddhism. In turn, Chinese monks like Fayian, Xuanzang, and Yijing journeyed to India in search of Buddhist scriptures, which they then translated and disseminated. This exchange of knowledge and culture enriched both civilizations and had a profound impact on the broader world.
Economic and Political Relations
China and India are not only ancient civilizations but also the largest emerging markets and developing countries. Both nations are at critical stages of development and revitalization, making a stable and cooperative relationship mutually beneficial. In 2023, bilateral trade between China and India reached an impressive 136.2 billion US dollars, with China emerging as India’s largest trading partner. This economic interdependence highlights the complementary nature of the two economies and the vast potential for future cooperation. President Xi Jinping has aptly noted that when China and India speak with one voice, the world listens. When these two countries join hands, the world takes notice. Seventy years ago, China and India embraced the Five Principles of Peaceful Coexistence, setting a foundation for their bilateral relations and promoting these principles as norms in international relations. These principles have been widely accepted and have significantly contributed to maintaining peace and stability in Asia and beyond. In recent years, high-level communication and interactions between the two countries have further solidified their relationship. Both nations have made important strides in understanding that they are partners, not competitors. This mutual recognition opens the door to enhanced political trust, effective management of differences, and the advancement of mutually beneficial cooperation.
Conclusion
As we look to the future, it is essential to remember the wisdom of our shared past. The historical and cultural exchanges between India and China provide a strong foundation for contemporary relations. By building on this legacy, India and China can navigate the complexities of modern geopolitics and economic development, working together to achieve common goals and address global challenges. In conclusion, the first impression of China, viewed through the lens of historical and cultural ties, is one of a nation committed to harmony, mutual respect, and shared progress. As India and China continue to deepen their relationship, they set an example for the world, demonstrating the power of cooperation and the enduring value of ancient wisdom in shaping a better future for all.
*The views and opinions expressed in the articles are solely those of the individual authors and do not reflect the position of the Secretariat of the Belt and Road Journalist Network.