Business/ China backs India in US Tariff dispute, calls for closer Bilateral cooperation
Xu Feihong the ambassador of China to India, has sharply criticized the United States for imposing steep tariffs on Indian goods, labeling Washington a “bully” in global trade. The remarks signal a notable diplomatic shift as India-China relations show signs of improvement amid ongoing trade tensions between Delhi and the US.
Xu condemned recent US tariff hikes which reach up to 50% on some Indian products as harmful to international trade norms. “Silence only emboldens the bully,” he stated during an event in New Delhi, urging stronger Sino-Indian collaboration.
The criticism comes as the US plans additional tariffs, set to take effect August 27, targeting Indian purchases of Russian oil and arms. India has defended its energy imports as essential for economic stability.
In a parallel effort to mend ties, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi recently visited India, advocating that both nations view each other as “partners.” Ambassador Xu echoed this, describing India and China as “double engines” of Asian economic growth.
Xu also called for increased Indian investment in China and urged fair treatment for Chinese companies operating in India. Both nations, he emphasized, should jointly support the WTO-led multilateral trading system against rising protectionism.
The upcoming SCO summit, attended by PM Modi, may further accelerate this diplomatic thaw.
