China Firmly Stands With India’: China Condemns Trump's 50% Tariffs, Says ‘Silence Only Emboldens Bully’

China has voiced strong opposition to the United States' decision to impose tariffs of up to 50% on Indian goods. The Chinese government warns that remaining silent against such "economic bullying" could embolden the US further. Beijing has pledged its support to India, highlighting the importance of their partnership in shaping Asia's economic and political landscape.

The Chinese Ambassador to India, Xu Feihong, criticised the US for using tariffs as a bargaining tool despite having benefited from free trade for many years. He stated, "The US has imposed tariffs of up to 50% on India and even threatened more. China firmly opposes it. Silence only emboldens the bully. China will firmly stand with India."

China and India's Strategic Partnership

Xu emphasised that cooperation between India and China is crucial not just for their own development but also for global stability. He remarked, "For two neighbouring countries of such size, unity and cooperation are the only way to achieve common development. We are the double engines of economic growth in Asia. India and China's unity benefits the world at large."

The ambassador also highlighted the need for building mutual trust between the two nations while avoiding suspicion. He stressed that both countries should manage differences through dialogue and called for closer alignment of strategies and expansion of bilateral trade.

Progress on Border Issues

Following talks co-chaired by Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi and Indian National Security Adviser Ajit Doval, Xu reported progress on border issues. The discussions resulted in 10 points of consensus, including forming an Expert Group under the Working Mechanism for Consultation and Coordination (WMCC) to explore early solutions on boundary delimitation.

Both sides agreed to establish new General-Level Mechanisms in the eastern and middle sectors of the border, complementing existing frameworks in the western sector. They reiterated maintaining peace in border areas through friendly consultations.

Economic Ties and Water Cooperation

On economic matters, Beijing and Delhi decided to reopen three traditional border trading markets: Renqinggang-Changgu, Pulan-Gunji, and Jiuba-Namgya. They also scheduled another round of boundary talks in China for 2026.

The two countries discussed river management as well. Xu confirmed that they would strengthen their Expert Level Mechanism on Trans-border Rivers and maintain open communication channels regarding agreements renewal. China committed to sharing hydrological information during emergencies based on humanitarian considerations.

Global Implications

By opposing Washington's tariff hikes and aligning with India, China is signalling a broader strategic vision. This vision positions Beijing and Delhi not just as regional powers but as central actors in creating an "equal and orderly multipolar world," countering US President Donald Trump's tariff policies.