China’s state-run media has responded positively to Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s recent remarks on India-China relations, calling his approach "pragmatic" and aligned with the broader goal of stabilising bilateral ties. This reaction from Global Times, the official mouthpiece of the Chinese Communist Party (CCP), comes after PM Modi emphasised the need for dialogue and constructive competition between the two nations.

Modi Stresses Dialogue and Healthy Competition in Podcast with Lex Fridman

Prime Minister Modi, in a conversation with MIT researcher and podcaster Lex Fridman, underlined the importance of nurturing a "healthy and natural" competition between India and China, while making sure that disagreements do not escalate into conflict. He also highlighted the deep-rooted historical and cultural ties between the two countries and stressed that dialogue should take precedence over discord.

Global Times Calls Modi's Stand a ‘Pragmatic Approach’

In an article published on Monday, Global Times acknowledged Modi’s efforts to improve relations with China, despite existing tensions between the two Asian powers. The article included analysis from Chinese and Indian affairs experts, who praised Modi’s focus on cooperation and open dialogue.

Qian Feng, Director of the Research Department at the National Strategy Institute of Tsinghua University, told Global Times, “Modi’s remarks underscore the Indian government’s current pragmatic approach to advancing China-India relations, building on the positive momentum since the Kazan summit of the leaders.”

Qian added that PM Modi’s statements align with ongoing efforts to restore bilateral ties to a path of “stable and healthy development.” He noted that since the Kazan summit, both countries have worked toward implementing key agreements, enhancing exchanges at multiple levels, and pursuing practical cooperation, which has led to several positive developments in the relationship.

Progress Since Kazan Summit and Diplomatic Engagements

Qian also pointed out that China-India relations have improved in recent months, with both sides following through on the important consensus reached at the Kazan summit. He said these efforts have included strengthening dialogues and collaborative initiatives, which are seen as vital steps toward easing long-standing tensions.

One such development was the 32nd meeting of the Working Mechanism for Consultation and Coordination (WMCC) on border affairs, held in New Delhi in December 2024. During that meeting, India and China agreed to maintain both diplomatic and military communication channels to ensure peace and stability along the border areas.

Prime Minister Modi’s call for constructive engagement and balanced competition between India and China has been recognised by Chinese state media as a significant and pragmatic step toward improving bilateral relations. By focusing on dialogue, mutual cooperation, and responsible handling of differences, both nations appear to be moving towards rebuilding trust and ensuring stability in the region. The positive response from Global Times reflects China’s acknowledgement of India’s effort to maintain a stable and forward-looking partnership, despite historical and ongoing challenges.