Beijing Urges ‘Dragon-Elephant Partnership’ as US Tariff Battle Intensifies
Beijing, March 7, 2025 – As the United States escalates its trade war with China, imposing 20% tariffs on Chinese imports, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi has called for closer cooperation between India and China to counter what he described as “hegemonism and power politics.”
Speaking at a press conference on March 7, Wang Yi highlighted the recent progress in India-China relations, emphasizing that the two nations should be partners in success rather than rivals. His remarks come as Washington tightens economic pressure on Beijing, creating new geopolitical shifts.
Highlights from Wang Yi’s Statement
- China sees India as a key strategic partner and urges stronger bilateral cooperation.
- Beijing and New Delhi have made “positive strides” in diplomatic and military relations after resolving the four-year-long Ladakh standoff.
- Wang Yi calls for a “Dragon-Elephant Partnership”, stating that collaboration is the only right choice for both nations.
- China and India should unite to oppose “hegemonism and power politics”, indirectly referencing US foreign policies.
- The 75th anniversary of China-India relations presents an opportunity for deeper engagement.
China’s Push for Stronger Ties with India
Amid heightened US-China trade tensions, China is signaling a willingness to enhance ties with India, presenting economic cooperation and regional stability as mutual benefits. Wang Yi pointed to last year’s landmark meeting between President Xi Jinping and Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Kazan, where both leaders agreed on strategic guidance for improving relations.
“The successful meeting between President Xi Jinping and Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Kazan last October provided strategic guidance for the improvement and development of bilateral ties. Both sides have earnestly followed through on the common understandings of our leaders and strengthened exchanges and cooperation at all levels,” Wang Yi said.
‘Dragon and Elephant Must Dance Together’ – China’s Vision for India Partnership
Emphasizing the need for collaboration, Wang Yi underscored that India and China, as the world’s two largest developing economies, have a shared responsibility to reshape global governance and support the Global South.
“A cooperative pas de deux of the dragon and the elephant is the only right choice for both sides,” he stated. “There is every reason for us to support rather than undermine each other.”
His comments reflect Beijing’s broader geopolitical vision—aligning with India against Western economic pressures, particularly as Washington continues to tighten trade restrictions on China.
Countering the US: India and China as Pillars of the Global South
In a veiled reference to the United States, Wang Yi asserted that China and India must resist “hegemonism and power politics.”
“As important members of the Global South, we have the responsibility to oppose hegemonism and power politics,” Wang Yi said.
The US tariff hikes on Chinese imports and Washington’s growing military and economic partnerships with India have placed New Delhi in a delicate position. While India has expanded trade and security cooperation with the US, China’s diplomatic push suggests Beijing is keen to ensure that India does not fully align with Western strategies targeting China.
The Road Ahead for India-China Relations
Wang Yi’s remarks signal Beijing’s intent to reset relations with India, following years of border disputes and trade tensions. With 2025 marking the 75th anniversary of India-China diplomatic relations, China is looking to leverage this milestone to bolster economic and strategic partnerships.
“China stands ready to work with India to sum up past experience and advance China-India relations on the track of sound and stable development,” Wang said.
Challenges to China’s Outreach to India
Despite China’s overtures, several challenges remain in the India-China relationship:
- Border tensions: While the Ladakh standoff has de-escalated, past border clashes continue to strain trust.
- Economic competition: India’s focus on self-reliance (Aatmanirbhar Bharat) and restrictions on Chinese investments and apps have impacted trade ties.
- Geopolitical dynamics: India’s participation in Quad (US, Japan, Australia, India) remains a point of concern for Beijing.
