China and India Reaffirm Strategic Partnership, Commit to Cooperation Over Competition in New Delhi Dialogue

Chinese Executive Vice Foreign Minister Ma Zhaoxu and Indian Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri held a new round of the China-India Strategic Dialogue in New Delhi on February 10, signaling continued efforts by the two Asian giants to stabilize and strengthen their bilateral relationship amid a rapidly evolving global landscape.

The high-level meeting featured friendly, candid, and in-depth exchanges on a broad range of issues. These included the current international situation, each country’s domestic and foreign policies, regional and international matters of shared concern, and the overall trajectory of China-India relations. The dialogue provided a platform for both sides to review progress and chart a forward-looking path for engagement.

According to statements from both sides, the discussions underscored a shared recognition of the profound and complex changes taking place in the international environment. Ma and Misri emphasized the importance of faithfully implementing the key consensus reached between Chinese President Xi Jinping and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. They agreed to approach and manage bilateral ties from a strategic height and long-term perspective, moving beyond short-term frictions to focus on enduring cooperation.

A core outcome of the talks was the reaffirmation of a fundamental strategic understanding: China and India are cooperative partners, not competitors, and each represents a development opportunity for the other rather than a threat. Building on this foundation, the two diplomats pledged to enhance mutual trust, broaden practical cooperation in various fields, and manage differences constructively. The ultimate goal, they stated, is to advance China-India relations steadily along a healthy and stable track.

The dialogue also addressed multilateral cooperation. Both countries agreed to support each other’s responsibilities as BRICS chair in the coming years. With India currently holding the BRICS presidency in 2026, the two sides committed to close coordination to ensure the grouping’s success. They further expressed strong support for multilateralism, the central role of the United Nations, and greater solidarity among Global South nations.

In this context, Ma and Misri highlighted their joint commitment to upholding international fairness and justice, promoting the development of a multipolar world, and contributing positively to peace and development in Asia and beyond.

The meeting took place against the backdrop of gradual improvement in bilateral ties. Following the 2024 border disengagement agreements, both governments have worked to restore trust, facilitate people-to-people exchanges, and explore opportunities in trade, investment, and other practical areas. While challenges remain—including sensitive issues along the border and differences in global affairs—the tone of the strategic dialogue was notably constructive.

For China and India, the world’s two most populous nations and major emerging economies, maintaining stable and cooperative relations carries significant implications not only for their own development but also for regional stability and global governance. The Strategic Dialogue mechanism serves as a vital channel for aligning positions, reducing misunderstandings, and unlocking the substantial potential of their partnership.

As geopolitical uncertainties persist worldwide, yesterday’s talks in New Delhi reflect a mature approach by both capitals: acknowledging differences while prioritizing dialogue, mutual respect, and shared interests. Further high-level engagements are anticipated in the months ahead as the two sides work to translate these commitments into tangible outcomes.