BEIJING, China: China has appointed senior diplomat Xu Feihong as its new ambassador to India, marking the end of an 18-month vacancy in the position amidst strained bilateral relations due to a military stand-off along the disputed Himalayan border.
Xu Feihong, aged 60 and a former assistant minister of foreign affairs, arrived in New Delhi on Friday morning to assume his role as the new ambassador, as confirmed by the Chinese embassy in India.
In an interview with state broadcaster CGTN, Ambassador Xu emphasized the importance of the understanding between Chinese President Xi Jinping and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, highlighting that the two nations are cooperation partners rather than competitors. He expressed his commitment to promoting “sound and steady” bilateral ties and fostering mutual understanding and trust between the two sides.
Xu’s appointment fills the longest vacancy in the post since 1976, following the departure of his predecessor Sun Weidong in November 2022. Xu brings a wealth of diplomatic experience, having served as China’s ambassador to Afghanistan and Romania, as well as holding various diplomatic positions in Western countries.
The absence of a Chinese ambassador in New Delhi during the strained period of border disputes was noted by observers as a gap in communication channels between the two countries. However, it remains uncertain whether Xu’s appointment will lead to an immediate improvement in Sino-Indian relations.
The appointment comes amidst ongoing Indian elections and a challenging period for the two neighbouring countries, marked by tensions along the disputed border. Both sides have engaged in multiple rounds of military and diplomatic discussions to address the stand-off.
Xu’s role as China’s top diplomat to India holds significant importance in navigating the complexities of the bilateral relationship, especially amidst geopolitical tensions and border disputes.
