'Rebuilding trust with China has begun': PM Modi pitches trust reboot with China, warns rivalry must fuel growth

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has signalled a hopeful outlook on India’s ties with China, underscoring the need for rebuilding trust and fostering cooperation despite lingering border disputes. Speaking on Lex Fridman’s podcast, Modi highlighted the long-standing civilizational ties between the two countries and expressed confidence that recent diplomatic efforts could lead to greater stability.

Modi reflected on the complex yet historically peaceful relationship between India and China, noting that both nations have shared centuries of cultural and economic exchange. He pointed out that at one time, the two countries together accounted for over half of the world’s economic output—a testament to their historical influence.

“For centuries, India and China have coexisted and learned from each other. Our interactions have shaped global history and culture. While tensions have emerged in recent years, our foundation remains strong,” Modi remarked.

The Prime Minister’s comments come after his recent meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping on the sidelines of the BRICS Summit in Kazan, Russia. Modi described the talks as a positive step toward restoring normalcy at the border following the 2020 clashes in Ladakh, which had strained diplomatic ties.

“Tensions at the border in 2020 created a difficult phase in our relationship. However, after my meeting with President Xi, we have seen progress toward resolving these issues. Rebuilding trust takes time, but the process has begun,” Modi said.

Emphasising the importance of maintaining stability, Modi advocated for a competitive yet cooperative relationship with China. He stressed that rivalry between the two nations should remain constructive and not escalate into conflict.

“Competition is natural between two major powers. But it should push us toward growth, not confrontation. The 21st century belongs to Asia, and India and China have a shared responsibility to ensure peace and prosperity,” he stated.

Modi acknowledged that differences between neighbours are inevitable but insisted that dialogue is key to resolving them. He likened the relationship to that within a family, where disagreements arise but must be handled with understanding.

“Neighbours will have differences—that’s the reality. But the focus should be on finding solutions through communication and respect rather than letting disputes fester,” he said.

Turning to global governance, Modi criticised the weakening influence of international institutions like the United Nations. He argued that the failure of these organisations to enforce rules has created an unstable global environment.

“Global institutions are losing relevance. When rules are openly violated without consequences, it weakens trust in the system. The world needs a new approach—one focused on cooperation and development,” Modi remarked.

Rejecting expansionism as a strategy in the modern world, Modi called for a shift toward interdependence and mutual growth. “No country can afford to stand alone anymore. The future lies in collaboration, not territorial expansion,” he said.

Modi’s appearance on Fridman’s podcast places him alongside a roster of influential global figures, including US President Donald Trump, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, and tech leaders like Elon Musk and Mark Zuckerberg. His remarks reflect India’s strategic push to balance competition with cooperation on the global stage while navigating complex ties with China.