India and China relationship

The major events in the Indo-China relations are as examined below :

1. Great powers : Before the advent of western imperialism both were great powers. However, there was limited interaction between the two and neither country was very familiar with the other.

2. Hindi-Chini bhai-bhai: After independence for a brief period the two countries came closer and the slogan Hindi-Chini bhai-bhai became popular.

3. Tibet (1950) and border conflict (1962) : Chinese takeover of Tibet (1950) and border conflict (1962) had negative effect on relationship. Diplomatic relations between the two countries were downgraded until 1976.

4. Change in China’s political leadership : After the change in political leadership the policy have become more pragmatic and less ideological. A series of talks to resolve the border issue were initiated in 1981.

5. Rajiv Gandhi’s China visit and its outcomes : Rajiv Gandhi’s visit in December 1988 had improve the relations. Measures to maintain peace have been taken. Various agreements for cooperation have been signed. India-China trade has been growing at 30 percent per year since 1999. It is hoped that more positive and sound relationship will be established in future.

6. WTO: Globally, both China and India have adopted similiar policies in this international institution.