The interactions between China and South Asia could date back to the 3rd century BC, but before the mid of 20th century, the lasting 2000 years interactions and communications were confined to cultural and religion, but rarely commerce. Their political connection only started after the British ruled the South Asia subcontinent. However, the earlier history of relations between the subcontinent and Qing Dynasty and following Republic of China was only the history of relations between Great Britain and China.679126

Resuming the sovereignty over foreign affairs by new countries provided possibility to expand and develop their relationship, but China and South Asia did not develop the comprehensive and mutual-benefits relationship before 21st century. Their economic ties were weak and their exchanges of people to people were small in size. China involved a border war with India which had long term effects to the relations of the two countries though China has a good relationship with Pakistan that is also important to the regional relations.

Since the 21st century, the relationship between China and South Asia has significantly changed, for the first time in history, China participates in the regional issues very positively and massively. China’s policy via-s-via South Asia was redefined and the relationship between the two sides were enlarged, deepened and reorganized. China has become a crucial external partner of South Asia and would play a more and more important role on the stage of South Asia.