Xi Jinping Urges India-China Cooperation on 77th Republic Day

President Xi Jinping sent a congratulatory message to Indian President Droupadi Murmu on January 26, 2026, to mark India's 77th Republic Day. In the message, Xi described China and India as "good neighbours, friends and partners" and used the metaphor of the "dragon and the elephant dancing together" to characterize the ideal bilateral relationship. He stated that improving ties are of "great significance for maintaining and promoting world peace and prosperity" and argued that such a partnership is the right choice for both nations.

This diplomatic outreach follows years of strained relations triggered by the 2020 military standoff in eastern Ladakh and the Galwan Valley clash. A rapprochement began with high-level meetings between Xi and Prime Minister Narendra Modi at the 2024 BRICS Summit in Kazan and a 2025 meeting in Tianjin. Chinese Premier Li Qiang also sent a congratulatory message to Prime Minister Modi during the celebrations.

Bilateral ties have further normalized through the resumption of direct flights in October 2025, the restoration of tourist visas for Chinese nationals in July, and agreements to restart the Kailash Manasarovar Yatra. Reports also indicate that India plans to lift restrictions on Chinese companies bidding for government contracts. This diplomatic thaw occurs as both nations navigate the confrontational foreign policy, tariff measures, and potential sanctions legislation of U.S. President Donald Trump.