India and China have always said their friendship isn’t influenced by outside factors. However, history shows that the global environment deeply affects how these two countries interact. Since the 1950s, their relationship has gone through different phases: peaceful times, tension, friendly competition, and sometimes even collaboration.
In past times of uncertainty, both countries have worked to keep their relationship stable despite ongoing disagreements. For example, in the early 1950s, both nations aimed to manage the growing tension of the Cold War to ensure peace in Asia. Another crucial moment was after the Cold War ended in 1989, where they worked to ease previous tensions and normalize relations.
Now, we are in another significant period of change in the world. We are witnessing a shift from a world dominated by one power (the US) to a multipolar world where many countries, including India and China, hold significant influence. This shift creates new opportunities for the two countries to cooperate, especially in shaping what this new world will look like.
While other regions, like Europe and the Middle East, face conflicts, the relationship between India and China remains relatively stable. Leaders Xi Jinping of China and Narendra Modi of India seek to strengthen ties not just to avoid conflict but also to help shape a new international order that includes more voices and ideas from countries outside the West.
In the past, both countries benefited from a global order set up by the US, which helped their economies grow. However, recent political changes in the US and the West indicate that they may no longer play as strong of a role in global affairs. Both India and China need to adapt and can no longer rely on the old system to meet their needs.
Moreover, globalization is facing challenges. Many countries, including India, want a more balanced and fair economic system that doesn’t allow any one country to dominate. They seek better opportunities for growth, trade, and shared benefits without interference from powerful nations.
This is especially important for India, which wants to modernize its industries and collaborate with China and other economies. For this to happen, a new, inclusive economic order needs to be developed through cooperation between different nations.
The BRICS+ group is currently showing promise as an institution to help build this new framework. Unlike the US, India and China cannot step back; they must play a significant role in creating a fair and connected multipolar world.
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