Beijing: Chinese President Xi Jinping on Monday sent a congratulatory message to his Indian counterpart on India's 77th Republic Day, describing Beijing and New Delhi as 'good neighbors, friends and partners,' state media reported. In his message to Indian President Droupadi Murmu, Xi emphasized the ongoing improvement and development of China-India relations over the past year. He remarked that this progress aligns with the fundamental interests of both countries and their people, carrying significant implications for global peace and prosperity.

According to Anadolu Agency, Xi referred to China and India as the 'dragon and the elephant dancing together,' expressing hope that both nations will adhere to the important consensus that they are "partners for cooperation and opportunities for development." This message arrives as the two largest countries in Asia make efforts to normalize ties following the tariff policies of former US President Donald Trump and nearly four years of border tensions. These tensions had escalated to the 2020 border clashes, resulting in the deaths of at least 20 Indian soldiers.

Following the 2020 clashes, India implemented a ban on the Chinese-owned social media platform TikTok and imposed restrictions on Chinese investments within the country. Despite these tensions, bilateral trade between China and India has continued, reaching approximately $130 billion. In a significant development, October 2025 saw the resumption of direct flights between the two countries after a five-year suspension.

India commemorated Republic Day on Monday with a military parade showcasing its military capabilities, including missiles, warplanes, newly-raised units, and other weapon systems. The President of the EU Council, Antonio Costa, and the President of the EU Commission, Ursula von der Leyen, attended the celebrations as chief guests.