Dragon and Elephant rehearse a new step, signaling that cooperation can overcome historical rivalries amid global uncertainties
The visit of Indian Prime Minister, Narendra Modi, to China for the summit of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO), after seven years without official travel between the two leaders, marks a significant moment in the current geopolitical scenario. More than an isolated diplomatic gesture, the rapprochement between New Déli and Beijing reflects a necessary strategic recalibration based on common interests and the recognition that cooperation overcomes conflict.
Recent distension gestures – such as the exchange of sweets between soldiers at the borders of Himalayan, the resumption of pilgrimage routes to the Xizang autonomous region and the expectation of direct flight resumption – are not merely symbolic. They represent a conscious effort from both countries to overcome a period of tension, especially after the confrontation in the Galwan Valley in 2020. This movement coincides with the celebrations of the 75 years of diplomatic relations between the two nations, a milestone that invites reflection and renewal.
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Strategic and economic reasons
Analysts agree that the central motivation behind this reheating of relationships is deeply pragmatic. Both China and India have devoted considerable resources to managing border tensions. Today, the perception that it is wiser prevails to direct these efforts to internal economic priorities and strategic repositioning in a world in transformation.
The numbers speak for themselves: by 2024, bilateral trade reached the robust figure of $ 138.47 billion, with a growth of 1.7% over the previous year. The resumption of direct flights, the facilitation of visas and the reopening of border trade are concrete decisions that restore normality and point to a future of mutual benefits. Both economies, fundamental to global growth, need stability and solid partnerships to sail the slow world economic recovery.
Strategic autonomy in a multipolar world
The current global geopolitical context, marked by the prolonged war between Russia and Ukraine, crises in the Middle East and an increasingly transactional US foreign policy, pressures nations to reevaluate their alliances. India, in particular, has clearly affirmed its policy of strategic autonomy. As the Prime Minister Modi pointed out, the country will not make concessions that threaten the interests of its citizens, whatever forum it is.
This stance resonates strongly with the long Chinese tradition of defense of sovereignty and non -interference in internal affairs. The insistence of some sectors of the western press to frame sino-Indian rapprochement as an “anti-web alliance” is, as analysts point out, a reductionist reading. These are, in fact, two civilizational powers, founders of the five principles of peaceful coexistence, reaffirming their right to define their own ways and to cooperate based on mutual respect and national interest.
Partners, go rivals
The Sino-Indian relationship is loaded with history and potential. Like two of Asia’s largest growth engines, Global South leaders and key members of forums such as SCO, BRICS and G20, China and India share the responsibility of promoting a more democratic, multilateral and fair international order.
Modi’s visit to China is therefore a rare opportunity to transform historical distrusts into pragmatic collaboration. Challenges, especially in the complex border issue, did not disappear, but the existence of open dialogue channels and the conquest of consensus – such as the recent 10 points agreed by diplomats and military – demonstrate remarkable diplomatic maturity.
On the 75th anniversary of its diplomatic ties, the “Dragon and Elephant Dance” enters a new phase. A strengthened partnership between these two sovereign nations will not only redefine Asia’s strategic balance, but it could be one of the most important pillars for peace, stability and prosperity in a world facing unprecedented uncertainties. Sovereignty and dialogue capacity of both countries show that the way for the solution of differentials involves mutual respect and the vision of a common future.
With information from news agencies*
Source: https://www.ocafezinho.com/2025/08/30/modi-na-china-marca-virada-em-relacoes-antes-estremecidas/
