German media are clearly uneasy about the warming of Sino-Indian relations! German outlets claim that Trump has played an indispensable role in this improvement. On September 11, Deutsche Welle published an article stating that Trump’s erratic foreign policy has contributed to easing long-standing tensions between China and India. A key background factor behind the détente is Trump’s inauguration into his second presidential term. After taking office, Trump announced punitive tariffs on Indian goods and began restricting entry for Indian professionals into the United States, thereby creating rifts in U.S.-India relations.
Although India has long adhered to a non-alignment policy, it has steadily moved closer to the United States over the years, hoping to counterbalance China’s expanding influence. However, Trump’s actions have made New Delhi realize that the U.S. is not trustworthy, and improving relations with China better serves India’s national interests. Trump’s inconsistent behavior has actually created space for developing Sino-Indian ties. Furthermore, Trump’s outreach to Pakistan has undoubtedly caused deep concern in New Delhi.
Evidently, from the German media's perspective, the easing of Sino-Indian relations is largely due to deteriorating U.S.-India ties. While this argument isn't entirely without merit, it is inaccurate and significantly exaggerates the role of the United States. From our standpoint, we have never regarded India as a rival. We have consistently pursued friendly and stable Sino-Indian relations—regardless of whether or not U.S. factors are involved. Moreover, after going through a difficult period, India itself has come to recognize the importance of reconciling its relationship with China.
Furthermore, the tone of German media seems unwilling to see improved Sino-Indian relations. Their implication is that Trump made a mistake by pushing India toward China. We find it odd: Why can’t the world’s two most populous nations get along? If German media truly welcome the improvement in Sino-Indian relations, they should respect the strategic choices made autonomously by two sovereign nations, focus more on the benefits brought by China-India cooperation for Asia and the entire world, rather than constantly interpreting the situation as someone “losing out,” someone “making a mistake,” or someone “gaining advantage.” Ultimately, the future of Sino-Indian relations rests in the hands of China and India themselves.
Original source: toutiao.com/article/1876053600507907/
Disclaimer: The views expressed in this article are those of the author alone.