China's Ambassador Emphasizes Independent Growth for India and China
In a significant recent address, Chinese Ambassador to India, Xu Feihong, underscored that the remarkable progress witnessed in both India and China is solely a result of their people's hard work and wisdom. Speaking in New Delhi, his comments subtly challenged the idea that such development originates from external benevolence, a point highly relevant in the current geopolitical landscape.
Ambassador Xu's statements appeared to be a direct response to earlier remarks made by US Deputy Secretary of State Christopher Landau. Landau had suggested that the United States would approach India differently than it did China, aiming to prevent India from becoming a rival power. India's External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar had previously countered this perspective, firmly stating that India's ascent would be determined purely by its own efforts, not by the historical errors of other nations.
Fostering Mutual Benefit and Cooperation
During an India-China youth dialogue, Ambassador Xu strongly advocated for a vision of win-win cooperation between the two populous countries. He declared, "Both China and India have achieved incredible development in recent decades. These accomplishments are built on the dedication and intelligence of our own citizens, supported by global partnership, and are by no means dependent on anyone else's generosity."
He further elaborated that both nations are currently at a vital stage of growth and national rejuvenation. "We must achieve progress through our own hard work, while actively seeking partnerships that benefit both sides and supporting each other's success," the ambassador stressed, highlighting the importance of bilateral ties.
Addressing External Interference and Promoting Understanding
Ambassador Xu also pointed out that India and China are permanent neighbors, a fundamental truth that cannot be altered. Nevertheless, he observed that certain parties are unwilling to see the two countries coexist harmoniously. "They intentionally exaggerate our differences, promote fears about a so-called 'China threat,' and hope to profit from disagreements between our two nations," he explained.
In a world marked by constant change and instability, Xu urged young people to think independently and move beyond limited information bubbles, thereby helping to build a more objective and logical understanding between the Indian and Chinese populations.
Strengthening the Global South Together
The ambassador also warned about the rising trends of unilateralism, protectionism, and dominance in global affairs, which he believes severely weaken the existing international order. He emphasized that as significant members of the Global South, China and India have a crucial role to play.
"China and India should enhance their communication and coordination, collectively protect the legitimate rights and interests of developing countries, and guide the Global South towards greater advancement," Xu concluded, underlining the importance of their joint leadership in shaping a more equitable world order in this latest report.
