India and China Seek Diplomatic Thaw Amid Shared Legacy

The diplomatic relationship between India and China, marked by both collaboration and contention, is showing signs of improvement as the two nations commemorate 75 years of diplomatic engagement. Recent meetings, including a discussion between Indian Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and Chinese Defence Minister Admiral Dong Jun during the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation Defence Ministers’ meeting in January, along with the resumption of the Kailash Manasarovar Yatra in June and the visit of Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi to India this week, highlight an emerging warmth between the two countries.

Historical Connections and Modern Challenges

The relationship between India and China extends beyond contemporary diplomacy, rooted deeply in a rich history of intellectual engagement. As early as the first millennium CE, Chinese monks like Faxian, Xuanzang, and Yijing traveled vast distances to study at Indian centers of learning, particularly at Nalanda. This ancient institution was not only a hub of knowledge but also a symbol of cultural exchange where ideas and beliefs coexisted harmoniously.

In reviving the spirit of Nalanda, there lies a hope to foster meaningful, respectful engagement between the two nations. The motto of Nalanda, “Aa no bhadra kratavo yantu viśvata” (let noble thoughts come to us from all directions), embodies a commitment to peace and dialogue, principles still relevant today. The concept of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam, or the world as one family, has historically facilitated interactions between India and China.

Despite this legacy, contemporary political complexities seem to restrict the flow of ideas and academic exchanges. Trade disruptions, military tensions, and bureaucratic hurdles have stifled the vibrant interactions that once characterized their relationship. Scholars and students on both sides often face obstacles when seeking dialogue or collaboration, raising questions about the limits placed on these interactions.

Pathways to Rebuilding Engagement

The evident potential for mutual learning remains largely untapped. India can gain insights from China’s initiatives in areas like food security and local infrastructure, while China might find value in India’s democratic practices and engagement with civil society. These interactions do not merely serve as points of comparison but represent avenues for collaborative growth.

The challenge lies in navigating the complexities of this relationship. Why does India’s engagement with China remain so cautiously managed? The need for strategic ambiguity often overshadows the rich intellectual history shared by both nations. Moving forward requires a shift from reactive diplomacy to a more proactive approach that honors their shared civilizational ties while addressing current realities.

Drawing inspiration from Nalanda, which fostered dialogue between diverse civilizations, both countries can work towards a more constructive relationship. While differences will persist—be it in border negotiations or trade policies—maintaining open lines of communication is crucial. Disagreement does not necessitate disengagement; holding firm on key issues while remaining open to dialogue can create pathways to understanding.

Investing in robust academic research and facilitating smoother exchanges in fields like environment, health, and culture are essential steps in this direction. Nalanda thrived not only as a center of knowledge but also through values that resonate today: curiosity, compassion, and the transformative power of knowledge. Prominent figures, like the scholar Śīlabhadra, who taught Xuanzang, exemplified how learning could serve as a diplomatic tool.

For both India and China, revisiting these foundational principles could pave the way for more thoughtful engagement. Cultivating curiosity without fear, fostering dialogue devoid of suspicion, and ensuring clarity without aggression may lead to a deeper understanding and respect between the nations. Breaking down the metaphorical “Chinese wall” that currently limits engagement could help to dispel the paranoia shaping policies and encourage a more cooperative future.

As India and China navigate their complex relationship, the essence of Nalanda serves as a reminder of the potential for constructive dialogue and collaboration. By embracing their shared legacy, both nations may find a path forward marked by mutual respect and understanding.