Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi visited India this week to hold talks on the border dispute as the countries gradually move towards resetting ties amid uncertainties in its trade ties with the United States, another major trading partner. India and China, the longtime rivals, are cautiously strengthening ties. In a world rocked by U.S. President Donald Trump’s erratic trade policies, India is using this moment to assert strategic autonomy rather than merely patching up its differences with its northern neighbour.

The visit came ahead of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s trip to China later this month to attend the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation summit. Wang’s visit occurred days before External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar travelled to Russia from August 20-21 for discussions with his Russian counterpart. Both meetings were crucial for India’s ties with China and Russia against the backdrop of Trump’s unpredictable approach to both. This is India’s chance to deal with a tricky global situation. It can work with China while staying independent and strong. Right now, India should focus on growing its influence as a key global player. The goal is to protect its economy and security by being practical but also sticking to its values.

Both nations are working to improve relations and ease tensions following the deadly clash between their........

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