China’s Tone Softens on India: Xi Visit Signals Shift From LAC Tensions to Trade and Investment

New Delhi: China appears to be changing its tone toward India ahead of President Xi Jinping’s visit to New Delhi. Following confirmation of the visit, coverage in China’s state-run and party-backed media has notably shifted away from the Line of Actual Control (LAC) and border tensions, placing greater emphasis on trade, investment and business opportunities.

A reading of reports in several major Chinese publications suggests that Beijing is seeking to move the relationship beyond recent tensions and put economic cooperation at the centre of the bilateral agenda.

China pushes for better business conditions

China’s expectations on economic ties have been made increasingly clear.

The People’s Daily has called on India to provide Chinese companies with a fair, equitable, transparent and non-discriminatory business environment. The message indicates that Beijing sees improved market access and operating conditions for Chinese businesses as an important component of the relationship ahead of Xi’s visit.

China Daily has also focused heavily on the economic relationship, describing trade between the two countries as mutually beneficial while highlighting the importance of business conditions for Chinese firms operating in India.

Meanwhile, the Global Times has drawn attention to growing Indian interest in Chinese assets and the potential for increased investment flows between the two countries.

Beijing calls for a long-term approach

Just ahead of Xi’s India visit, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning said on Friday that China and India should properly manage their differences and view bilateral relations from a strategic and long-term perspective.

Mao said China is prepared to work with India in accordance with the guidance of the two countries’ leaders and adopt a strategic outlook aimed at supporting the development and success of both nations.

The statement reflects Beijing’s apparent preference for a broader approach to the relationship—one that does not allow individual disputes to dominate the entire bilateral agenda.

BRICS offers another platform for engagement

China has also highlighted the importance of BRICS as a platform for solidarity and cooperation among emerging markets and developing countries.

Mao described BRICS cooperation as an important mechanism for strengthening coordination among developing nations. Beijing, she said, is working with other members to advance BRICS cooperation and contribute to what China describes as a community with a shared future for humanity.

Why is China changing its tone?

The shift appears closely linked to China’s economic interests.

Beijing has a strong incentive to revive trade and investment channels with India following renewed political engagement between the two countries. While BRICS and the Global South remain important strategic platforms for China, improved trade, investment opportunities and market access for Chinese companies offer more immediate economic benefits.

China’s call for a more favourable environment for its companies therefore appears to be a key part of the message emerging from its state media.

For now, the border issue appears to have taken a back seat in China’s public messaging surrounding Xi’s visit. The bigger question is whether this softer rhetoric will translate into concrete policy changes after the Modi-Xi meeting.

If economic engagement begins to expand alongside political dialogue, Xi’s visit could mark a significant new phase in India-China relations. If not, the change in tone may remain largely diplomatic messaging.