The year 2025 marks the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations between India and China, both nations are being called upon to play a greater role in promoting Global Governance Initiative (GGI) proposed by China at the 2025 Tianjin SCO Summit.
Background
- India and China established diplomatic relations on April 1, 1950, marking 75 years of political, cultural, and economic exchanges.
- From 2014 to 2024, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Xi Jinping met 18 times, demonstrating continuity in dialogue despite tensions.
- Their most recent meetings — during the 2023 Johannesburg BRICS Summit and the 2024 Kazan BRICS Summit — emphasized improving ties and coordination in multilateral platforms.
India-China Partnership
- Both nations are key pillars of Asia’s rise and share responsibilities in driving development among Global South countries.
- President Xi stressed four key points for cooperation:
- Deepen strategic trust and communication.
- Enhance economic and cultural exchanges for mutual benefit.
- Address each other’s concerns peacefully.
- Coordinate multilaterally to defend shared interests.
- PM Modi echoed similar views, noting that bilateral relations have stabilized, peace is being maintained at the borders, and direct flights are resuming — signalling normalization.
Global Governance Initiative (GGI) — China’s Proposal
The GGI, introduced at the 2025 Tianjin SCO Summit, is aimed at reforming and strengthening international governance through five guiding principles:
- Sovereign Equality – All nations, big or small, deserve equal respect and participation in decision-making.
- Rule of Law – Uphold the UN Charter and ensure uniform application of international law without double standards.
- Multilateralism – Strengthen the UN system and promote global decisions through cooperation, not domination.
- People-Centric Governance – Global institutions must prioritize the welfare, safety, and development of people worldwide.
- Focus on Real Outcomes – Tackle real-world issues effectively; developed nations must contribute resources while developing nations collaborate.
Significance for India and China
- Both countries, as major players in SCO and BRICS, are expected to lead efforts toward a fairer, multipolar global order.
- The initiative seeks not to replace the current system but to reform and strengthen existing institutions for more inclusive and equitable global governance.
- Joint leadership by India and China could reinforce multilateralism, South-South cooperation, and a balanced world order that serves the interests of all nations.
Conclusion
India and China’s growing cooperation symbolizes a shift toward a more inclusive and multipolar global order. Their joint leadership in reforming global governance can help ensure peace, equity, and shared development for all nations.
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