China and Japan have congratulated Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on his victory in India’s general election. Beijing expressed its readiness to work with India, emphasizing the importance of a healthy and stable relationship between the two countries. Modi’s ruling alliance, the National Democratic Alliance (NDA), won 293 seats in the lower house of parliament, securing a government formation.
Modi, who has been a dominant figure in Indian politics since 2014, will now need the support of regional allies as his party did not secure an outright majority in the elections. The BJP won 240 seats on its own, causing some uncertainty about the government’s reform agenda. Despite this, China and Japan both extended their congratulations to Modi’s party and the NDA, emphasizing the importance of strong relations between the countries.
Relations between China and India have been marked by tensions and disputes over territory along their border. The Line of Actual Control has been a contentious issue, with both countries accusing each other of incursions and military assertiveness. China claims part of India’s northeastern state of Arunachal Pradesh, leading to a border war between the two countries in 1962. Despite these challenges, China expressed its willingness to work with India for the development of their relationship.
Japan also congratulated Modi’s ruling coalition, highlighting India as an important partner in promoting a free and open Indo-Pacific region. The Quad grouping, which includes Japan, India, the United States, and Australia, has been working together on regional security issues. Japan has been particularly interested in strengthening its relationship with India, with both countries sharing concerns about China’s growing influence in the region.
The G7 summit in Hiroshima last year saw Modi’s presence, despite India not being a member of the group. This indicates the growing recognition of India as an important player in international affairs. Japan’s commitment to strengthening ties with India reflects a shared interest in promoting stability and security in the Indo-Pacific region. As Modi begins his new term, cooperation between India, China, and Japan will play a crucial role in shaping the future of the region and global affairs.
