Context:
An opinion article by Ji Le, Consul General of the People’s Republic of China in Mumbai, calls for stronger China–India cooperation to reform global governance and strengthen multilateralism amid rising global instability, protectionism, and geopolitical competition.
Key Highlights / Details
India–China Relations
- 2025 marks 75 years of diplomatic ties between India and China.
- Frequent high-level meetings between PM Narendra Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping at forums like BRICS, G20, and SCO.
- China–India trade and development cooperation recognized as crucial for Asian stability and global growth.
Shared Role in Global Governance Reform
- Both countries support the UN-centered multilateral system.
- Advocate for Global South representation and reform of international institutions to reflect emerging economies.
- Stress strategic autonomy, oppose Cold War mentality & bloc politics.
Key Areas of Cooperation Suggested
Mr. Xi Jinping’s five governance principles highlighted:
- Common prosperity and global development – fight inequality & poverty.
- Mutual respect for civilizational diversity – oppose cultural domination.
- Multilateralism – support UN-led international order.
- People-centered governance – focus on development rights.
- Shared global responsibilities – climate action, South–South cooperation.
Cooperation Mechanisms
- Strengthen platforms like BRICS+, SCO, G20, and Global Development Initiative (GDI).
- Promote peace in border regions through dialogue.
- Expand connectivity, trade, and poverty reduction programs across Asia.
Relevant Prelims Points
- BRICS: Founding in 2009; members: Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa + recent expansion.
- SCO: Eurasian political & security grouping; India became full member in 2017.
- G20: India host (2023); troika includes India, Brazil, South Africa (Global South representation).
- Panchsheel Agreement (1954): Five principles of peaceful coexistence between India & China.
- UNSC reforms: India claims permanent seat; China supports broader reform but avoids direct support for India’s permanent seat.
Relevant Mains Points
- India–China Relations: Strategic competition + cooperation model.
- Global Governance Challenge: Multipolarity vs US-led order.
- South–South Cooperation: Emerging economies shaping global policy.
- Geopolitics & Multilateralism: Indo-Pacific tensions and BRICS realignment.
- Border Disputes & Diplomacy: Tension post-Galwan (2020) impacts trust & diplomacy.