Look beyond trade

China and India should handle ongoing trade frictions delicately. That will add sincerity to the mutual promise of honoring commitments on taking the relationship to a new level this year, the 60th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between the Asian powers.

Trade ties hit a rough patch recently after India reportedly suspended approval for the import of Chinese telecom equipment due to so-called security risks.

In fact, skirmishes over trade have arisen from time to time in recent years, with most such disputes being instigated by the Indian side.