Chinese Ambassador to India, Xu Feihong, has expressed Beijing's strong opposition to the US's hefty tariffs imposed on India, urging for enhanced cooperation between the two Asian giants. At an event in Delhi, Xu characterized the US as a "bully" for leveraging tariffs as a "bargaining chip," which he claims unfairly pressures other nations.
The US has enacted tariffs as high as 50% on Indian goods, which has raised tensions between the countries, particularly following President Trump's recent 25% tariffs related to Indian purchases of Russian oil and weapons. Xu stated that in response to these actions, "silence only emboldens the bully."
India has defended its acquisition of affordable Russian crude oil, especially in light of rising energy costs affecting its population. While the US has suggested India buy Russian oil to help stabilize global energy markets, relations have been strained, complicating ongoing trade negotiations.
Despite this friction, talks between India and China seem to be warming. The two nations have been working to improve ties since their 2020 border clashes in Ladakh. During a visit to Delhi this week, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi advocated for viewing one another as "partners" rather than rivals.
Xu echoed this sentiment, highlighting the economic potential of a united India and China, and called for greater investment opportunities across borders. He stressed that the current tariff and trade conflicts disrupt global economic stability and urged a collaborative approach to uphold international trading standards within the WTO framework. His remarks also hinted at hopes for positive advancements during Prime Minister Narendra Modi's upcoming visit to China for the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation summit.
