After a 15-month vacancy, China is reportedly set to appoint a new ambassador to India, according to The Wire. The position has been empty since the departure of the last envoy, Sun Weidong, in October 2022. This appointment comes at a critical time in Sino-Indian relations, which have been strained due to border tensions.
The selected candidate for the role is Xu Feihong, currently serving as an assistant foreign minister in Beijing, dealing with financial and administrative affairs.
While there has been no official confirmation from the Chinese embassy or India‘s Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), informed sources have indicated that the Indian side has been made aware of the choice.
Xu’s diplomatic experience is extensive, with a 37-year career that includes a previous ambassadorial position in Afghanistan from 2010 to 2013. His portfolio predominantly features assignments in Western countries, with a focus on Europe. His most recent ambassadorial role was in Romania, where he served from 2015 to 2018.
The role of the Chinese ambassador to India is significant, typically held by someone of vice-ministerial rank. Therefore, Xu would require a promotion before assuming his post in India. This contrasts with the experience of previous envoys like Sun Weidong and Lui Zhaohui, who had substantial experience in South Asia, including India.
The appointment of a new ambassador is seen as crucial, especially in the backdrop of the ongoing military standoff along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) since April-May 2020.
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The conflict reached a peak with the deadly Galwan Valley clash in June 2020, which resulted in casualties on both sides. Despite numerous rounds of military and diplomatic talks, tensions remain, particularly over areas like Demchok and Depsang.
India‘s stance has been clear: the standoff can only be resolved with disengagement and de-escalation in these contentious areas. Meanwhile, China has been advocating for the normalization of ties and moving beyond the border dispute. However, India insists that resolving the standoff is a precondition for normalizing relations.
The prolonged vacancy of the ambassadorial post is interpreted by some observers as a sign of Beijing‘s dissatisfaction with the current state of bilateral relations, further complicated by issues like financial probes into Chinese companies in India and differences over the SCO summit.
This new appointment could mark a turning point in the diplomatic relations between the two nations, which have seen their share of ups and downs since the 1962 war. With Xu’s potential arrival, there may be fresh opportunities for engagement and dialogue, crucial for easing tensions and fostering a more stable bilateral relationship.
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