Indian PM Narendra Modi appeared on the Lex Fridman podcast and said dialogue is the key to building a stable and cooperative relationship between India and China.

On being asked about the bilateral relations with India and China, the Prime Minister Modi emphasised their shared history of learning from each other and contributing to global good, highlighting that at one point, India and China together accounted for over 50% of the world’s GDP, showcasing their massive contributions.

He noted the deep cultural connections, including the profound influence of Buddhism in China, which originated in India.

Modi stressed the importance of maintaining and strengthening the relationship between the two nations.

He acknowledged that differences are natural between neighbors but stressed the need to prevent these differences from escalating into disputes.

“Dialogue is the key to building a stable and cooperative relationship that benefits both nations,” he added.

2020 Standoff

Addressing the border disputes, the Prime Minister acknowledged the tensions that arose in 2020 but noted that his recent meeting with President Xi has led to a return to normalcy at the border.

He highlighted efforts to restore conditions to pre-2020 levels and expressed optimism that trust, enthusiasm, and energy would gradually return.

He emphasized that cooperation between India and China is essential for global stability and prosperity, advocating for healthy competition rather than conflict.

The relationship between the two Asian giants touched new low points after India and Chinese troops were engaged in a violent border confrontation in Galwan Valley in May 2020.

India and China reached an agreement regarding patrolling along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) in eastern Ladakh on October 21, last year.

The agreement marked a significant breakthrough in ending the standoff.

Xi-Modi Meeting

Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping met on the sidelines of the BRICS Summit in Kazan last year in October.

It was the first meeting between the two leaders since the standoff.