A secret letter from Xi Jinping praising Donald Trump as a “great peacemaker” reportedly helped revive India-China ties, seen as a counter to U.S. tariff measures.
‘Trump a Great Peacemaker’: Secret Letter from Xi Jinping Helps Revive India-China Ties; Move to Counter US Tariff War
In a surprising diplomatic twist, reports suggest that a secret letter from Chinese President Xi Jinping, describing former U.S. President Donald Trump as a “great peacemaker,” has played a role in resetting strained ties between India and China. The letter, seen as part of Beijing’s broader strategy to counter escalating U.S. tariff measures, has sparked fresh debate on the evolving geopolitics of Asia.
Background: Tensions in India-China Relations
India-China relations have been under severe strain since the 2020 Galwan Valley clashes, which led to military and diplomatic standoffs along the Line of Actual Control (LAC). Border tensions, coupled with trade restrictions and strategic rivalry in the Indo-Pacific, had pushed ties to their lowest point in decades.
However, with the U.S. ramping up tariff wars against China, Beijing appears to be recalibrating its diplomatic approach, seeking new alignments in Asia to mitigate economic risks.
The “Secret Letter” to India
According to sources cited in diplomatic circles, Xi Jinping conveyed a private message to Indian leadership, framing Donald Trump as a “great peacemaker” who, despite adversarial rhetoric, understood the importance of balance in global trade.
The message reportedly urged India to see the U.S.-China tariff conflict not just as a bilateral issue but as a disruption to global supply chains, affecting emerging economies alike. By projecting Trump in a positive light, Xi sought to signal China’s willingness to build bridges and create space for joint cooperation with India.
A Strategic Counter to U.S. Tariffs
The U.S. has intensified its tariff war against China, targeting semiconductors, green technology, and traditional manufacturing. To offset these pressures, Beijing is exploring alternative partnerships to secure trade flows and stabilize its economy.
India, with its growing manufacturing base, large consumer market, and strategic position in Asia, becomes a natural partner in this context. Reviving ties could help both countries:
- China: Reduce isolation and gain access to alternative trade channels.
- India: Balance its U.S. partnership with pragmatic economic engagement with Beijing.
India’s Calculated Response
While New Delhi has not officially confirmed receiving such a message, indications suggest that backchannel talks have intensified in recent weeks. Diplomatic sources hint at possible trade relaxations, cross-border cooperation on climate, and limited de-escalation along the LAC.
However, India remains cautious. Strategic analysts note that trust deficit runs deep, and any revival of ties will depend on China’s actions on the border issue.
Trump’s Symbolic Role in Asia’s Diplomacy
The unusual reference to Donald Trump as a “peacemaker” is noteworthy. During his presidency, Trump adopted a confrontational stance against China with tariffs but also held multiple summits with Xi, projecting himself as a dealmaker.
By invoking Trump’s image, Xi may be signaling that pragmatism must override confrontation, especially in times of economic uncertainty. The framing also seeks to contrast Trump’s deal-making approach with the Biden administration’s hardline tariff policies.
Expert Views
Geopolitical experts see this development as a strategic move by China rather than a sentimental gesture.
- Trade Analysts argue that China’s outreach to India is aimed at building resilience in global trade networks.
- Security Experts caution that India must ensure any cooperation does not compromise its sovereignty or strategic alignment with the U.S. and Quad allies.
- Diplomats see an opportunity for India to extract economic concessions, while maintaining a firm stance on border security.
The Road Ahead
Whether this “secret letter” results in concrete breakthroughs remains to be seen. For now, it highlights the fluid nature of Asian diplomacy, where even symbolic gestures can influence perceptions.
If India and China find common ground, it could reshape the regional balance, especially as the U.S.-China rivalry deepens. However, for lasting rapprochement, issues like border disputes, trade imbalances, and trust-building must be addressed head-on.
Conclusion
Xi Jinping’s message praising Trump as a “great peacemaker” may seem unusual, but it underlines the complex interplay of diplomacy, trade, and symbolism in global politics. For India, the outreach offers both opportunity and risk—a chance to enhance its economic position while navigating the realities of great-power rivalry.
As the U.S. tariff war escalates, Asia’s two biggest economies may once again test the possibility of cooperation—though history reminds us that words alone cannot replace trust.