Chinese ambassador to India Xu Feihong has expressed strong opposition to the United States' recent imposition of steep tariffs on Indian goods, labeling Washington a "bully" that exploits free trade dynamics. Speaking at a diplomatic event in Delhi on Thursday, Xu condemned the U.S. tariffs that could soar up to 50%, calling it a tactic used to coerce other nations into submission with "exorbitant prices."
The implications of these tariffs extend beyond mere trade disagreements. Earlier this month, former President Trump introduced additional penalties totaling 25% on Indian imports, especially concerning oil and weapons bought from Russia. This decision, taking effect on August 27, is partly a response to India's increased reliance on Russian crude amidst the ongoing Ukraine conflict. Despite pressure from Washington, India has maintained its stance on purchasing affordable oil to shield its economically vulnerable population.
As relations between India and the U.S. become strained, a remarkable shift in ties between India and China is underway. The two countries have been seeking to mend relations that soured post-2020 border clashes in Galwan. During a recent visit, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi urged that both nations view each other as partners rather than adversaries.
Xu echoed these sentiments, describing India and China as "double engines" for economic growth in Asia. He further encouraged Indian businesses to invest in China, advocating for a "fair, just, and non-discriminatory" trade environment. Xu also warned against the broader impacts of tariff wars on the global economic landscape, emphasizing the need for adherence to international trade rules governed by the World Trade Organization (WTO).
Looking ahead, Xu expressed optimism regarding Prime Minister Narendra Modi's upcoming attendance at the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation summit in China, believing it will energize the bilateral relationship. As nations navigate the complexities of international trade, the evolving dynamics between India and China may set a new course for regional cooperation and stability amid U.S. pressures.
The implications of these tariffs extend beyond mere trade disagreements. Earlier this month, former President Trump introduced additional penalties totaling 25% on Indian imports, especially concerning oil and weapons bought from Russia. This decision, taking effect on August 27, is partly a response to India's increased reliance on Russian crude amidst the ongoing Ukraine conflict. Despite pressure from Washington, India has maintained its stance on purchasing affordable oil to shield its economically vulnerable population.
As relations between India and the U.S. become strained, a remarkable shift in ties between India and China is underway. The two countries have been seeking to mend relations that soured post-2020 border clashes in Galwan. During a recent visit, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi urged that both nations view each other as partners rather than adversaries.
Xu echoed these sentiments, describing India and China as "double engines" for economic growth in Asia. He further encouraged Indian businesses to invest in China, advocating for a "fair, just, and non-discriminatory" trade environment. Xu also warned against the broader impacts of tariff wars on the global economic landscape, emphasizing the need for adherence to international trade rules governed by the World Trade Organization (WTO).
Looking ahead, Xu expressed optimism regarding Prime Minister Narendra Modi's upcoming attendance at the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation summit in China, believing it will energize the bilateral relationship. As nations navigate the complexities of international trade, the evolving dynamics between India and China may set a new course for regional cooperation and stability amid U.S. pressures.
