India working on China ties, says Piyush Goyal
Quick Look
Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal stated India is working to renew relations with China if engagement continues, the geopolitical situation remains stable, and a fair deal is ensured, noting bilateral trade rose nearly 8% in 2025-26 to $128 billion, while affirming India-US ties remain substantive and poised to improve regardless of political changes.
AI-generated summary
Why It Matters
India and China have experienced strained relations in recent years due to border disputes and trade imbalances, though China remains India's second-largest trading partner.
India is working to develop relations with China once again, provided continuity in the engagement is warranted, geopolitical situation does not deteriorate and a fair deal is ensured, said commerce and industry minister Piyush Goyal Wednesday, adding that the "last word" on this journey is not yet scripted. "...I think we had some concerns in the past. We are working to develop the relations with China once again," said Goyal in response to a query whether China can be a part of joint ventures in critical sectors at the Bloomberg New Economy Forum. China is the second-largest trading partner for India, with bilateral trade rising nearly 8% in 2025-26 to $128 billion. Goyal also said ties between India and US remain "substantive" and "very consequential" for the world, which are poised to get better, irrespective of any changes in political thinking in both the countries. "...The relationship draws its strength from economic, political, and security imperatives.
What to Watch
AI outlook — possibilities, not facts
India and China will explore pilot joint ventures in non-sensitive technology sectors within the next 6 months
Possible · Within months
Open Questions
- What specific sectors are being considered for joint ventures with China?
- What mechanisms will ensure a 'fair deal' in renewed engagement?
- How might domestic political opposition in India affect this initiative?
