March 17, 2025: China on Monday welcomed Prime Minister Narendra Modi's remarks emphasizing dialogue over discord in India-China relations, calling it a "positive" step toward mutual understanding and cooperation. Beijing reaffirmed that a collaborative approach—symbolized as the "Dragon-Elephant Dance"—is the best way forward for the two Asian giants.

Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning highlighted that both nations have been implementing key agreements reached by their leaders, leading to strengthened exchanges and practical cooperation at multiple levels. "Being partners in mutual success and achieving 'Dragon-Elephant Dance' cooperation is the only correct choice for China and India," she said. She further noted that China is ready to work with India in deepening cooperation, particularly as both countries mark the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations.

PM Modi, in his podcast interview with American podcaster and AI researcher Lex Fridman, acknowledged that differences between neighboring nations were natural but emphasized that dialogue is essential in preventing conflicts. He also pointed out that after his recent meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping, there has been progress toward normalizing border conditions that were disrupted in 2020 following the Galwan Valley standoff.

India and China have taken steps to de-escalate tensions, with both countries reaching an agreement on patrolling along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) last year. Modi and Xi met on the sidelines of the BRICS Summit in Russia in October, where they reaffirmed their commitment to restoring bilateral mechanisms and maintaining stability along the border.

While acknowledging the challenges in rebuilding trust, PM Modi expressed optimism about the long-term future of India-China relations. "It is true that there have been ongoing border disputes between us. Slowly but surely, trust, enthusiasm, and energy will return. But of course, it will take some time, since there's been a five-year gap," he said.

Highlighting the historical ties between India and China, Modi reminded that both nations have ancient civilizations that have contributed significantly to the world. "For centuries, India and China have learned from each other and understood one another. At one point, together they accounted for 50% of the world's GDP," he noted, emphasizing the potential of strong cooperation.

With both nations keen on stability and mutual growth, the renewed diplomatic engagement signals a step toward a more constructive and cooperative relationship in the future.