President Xi Jinping once stated that when the youth thrive, the nation thrives; when the youth are strong, the nation is strong. China and India together are home to more than 1.2 billion young people. With plenty of ideals, determination, confidence, openness, and global vision, young people are the most dynamic and creative force in our societies. They’re the pioneers in advancing the rejuvenation of the Chinese nation and realising the vision of “Viksit Bharat 2047”, as well as the backbone of China-India friendship. Indeed, the development of bilateral relations requires not only the strategic guidance of our leaders, but also the mutual understanding and affinity between peoples, especially among young generations. Therefore, I would like to share a few expectations for the young friends.
China and India are neighbours that cannot be moved apart. It should be the right choice for both sides to be good-neighbourly friends and partners that contribute to each other’s success. Young people should have critical thinking and ask themselves, “What kind of relationship do we need?” and “What can China-India cooperation bring to our nations and to the world?” It is hoped that young people could tell the story of China-India friendship through concrete actions.
Both countries are at a critical stage of development and national rejuvenation. We shall achieve development through our own efforts, while actively pursuing mutually beneficial cooperation and supporting each other. Chinese and Indian youth can deepen exchanges and cooperation in fields such as artificial intelligence, digital economy, and green technology. They can work together to turn our innovative vitality into a strong driver of development for both countries.
In a world of transformation and turbulence, unilateralism and protectionism are on the rise, and hegemonism and power politics prevail. China and India should carry forward the “Eastern wisdom” of peaceful coexistence and mutual learning, support each other in assuming the BRICS presidency, and jointly safeguard the legitimate rights and interests of developing countries. It is hoped that young peoples will contribute their youthful energy to China-India cooperation in the multilateral arena and to world peace and stability.
Renowned Indian philosopher Swami Vivekananda once said, “Give me a few young men who are vigorous and full of vitality, and I will change the whole country.” His words fully demonstrate that the strength of the youth is the power of the nation. The future of China-India relations will ultimately be shaped by the young generation of our two countries. Hopefully, young peoples from both countries will aim high and work steadily to jointly write a new brilliant chapter in China-India relations.
(Edited by Prasanna Bachchhav)
