‘Competition is good, conflict is not’: What PM Modi told Lex Fridman on India-China relations

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in a conversation with Lex Fridman, emphasised India and China’s deep-rooted historical ties and the importance of maintaining a cooperative relationship despite occasional disagreements.

“The relationship between India and China isn’t something new. Both nations have ancient cultures and civilizations. Even in the modern world, they play a significant role,” PM Modi stated.

He highlighted the fact that India and China once contributed over 50% of the world’s GDP, showcasing their historical economic and cultural influence. “If we look back centuries, there’s no real history of conflict between us. It has always been about learning from each other and understanding one another,”

Emphasiing dialogue over discord

PM Modi reaffirmed that differences between neighboring nations are inevitable but should be managed through diplomatic means.

“Our relationship should remain just as strong in the future. It should continue to grow. Of course, differences are natural. But our focus is to ensure that these differences don’t turn into disputes,” he stressed.

Instead of discord, PM Modi advocated for open communication and dialogue, which he sees as the only way to build a stable, cooperative relationship. “Only through dialogue can we build a stable cooperative relationship that serves the best interests of both nations,” he stated.

Border issues and progress towards normalcy

Addressing border tensions, PM Modi acknowledged the 2020 conflict as a major challenge but expressed optimism about improving relations.

“It is true that there have been ongoing border disputes between us. And in 2020, the incidents along the border created significant tensions between our countries. However, after my recent meeting with President Xi, we have seen a return to normalcy at the border,” he explained.

PM Modi emphasised that trust-building takes time but is necessary for long-term peace and stability. “Slowly but surely, trust, enthusiasm, and energy will return. But of course, it will take some time, since there’s been a five-year gap,” he noted.

Healthy competition over conflict

Highlighting the strategic importance of India-China relations, PM Modi stressed that cooperation is not only beneficial but essential for global stability.

“Our cooperation isn’t just beneficial, it’s also essential for global stability and prosperity. And since the 21st century is Asia’s century, we want India and China to compete in a healthy and natural way. Competition is not a bad thing, but it should never turn into conflict,” he stated.

The global call for peace

When asked about rising global tensions, PM Modi reflected on the lessons of COVID-19 and the missed opportunity for unity post-pandemic.

“At that time, it felt like the world would learn from it, that we would move toward a more unified world. Just as a geopolitical order emerged after World War II, many thought something similar would happen post-COVID. But unfortunately, instead of moving towards peace, the world became even more fragmented,” PM Modi said.

He expressed concerns over the failure of international institutions like the UN to adapt and mediate conflicts effectively. “International organizations that were once powerful have become almost irrelevant. No real reforms are happening,” he remarked.

A call for cooperation over expansionism

PM Modi urged world leaders to focus on cooperation rather than expansionism, reinforcing the idea that modern conflicts extend beyond territorial disputes.

“In such situations, the prudent choice for everyone is to let go of conflict and move toward cooperation. And a development-driven approach is the way forward. Expansionism will not work,” he stated.

Reiterating the interconnected nature of the modern world, he emphasised that no nation can thrive in isolation.

“As I’ve said before, the world is interdependent and interconnected. Every nation needs one another, no one can stand alone. And from all the different forums I attend, one thing is clear: Everyone is deeply worried about these conflicts. We can only hope that peace is restored very soon,” he stated.