China’s Renewed Propaganda on Galwan Clash Raises Questions Amid Diplomatic Engagements

Fabricated Narratives vs. Ground Reality

February 25, 2025 Even after more than four years, China’s state-controlled media continues to distort the events of the Galwan Valley clash of June 2020, attempting to reshape the narrative in its favor. While India and China are engaged in diplomatic efforts to normalize relations, Beijing’s propaganda machine has reignited its campaign to glorify Chinese soldiers while downplaying the reality of the confrontation.

A recent report by Chinese media outlet Sohu highlights the story of 19-year-old soldier Chen Xiangrong, portraying him as a martyr who bravely defended China’s borders against ‘foreign incursions.’ The emotional storytelling, featuring an unfinished letter to his mother and glorified accounts of his bravery, raises concerns about China’s intent in revisiting the incident at a time when both nations are striving to de-escalate tensions.

China’s Version: A Manipulated Retelling

According to Sohu’s report, approximately 600 Indian troops allegedly crossed into Chinese-claimed territory in the Karakoram Mountains, armed with improvised weapons like maces and shields. The Chinese commander, Qi Fabao, along with ten soldiers, reportedly approached the Indian troops for negotiations but were met with sudden violence, resulting in brutal hand-to-hand combat where Chinese reinforcements were deployed.

Chen Xiangrong, depicted as a “shield-bearer” protecting his comrades, has become the face of China’s manufactured heroism. His alleged letter to his mother, left incomplete, and his widely circulated phrase, “My love is crystal clear, it is only for China,” have been used to fuel nationalist sentiment within China.

Meanwhile, his sister, Chen Qiaochai, has reportedly joined the military in a civilian capacity, continuing the fabricated patriotic saga. Her article, Clear Love, Forever Stay in the World, has been prominently featured in state media, reinforcing China’s attempt to manipulate public perception.

However, independent reports challenge China’s carefully crafted narrative. While India confirmed 20 casualties, including Colonel Santosh Babu, China initially refused to disclose its own losses. It later admitted to only four deaths nearly a year later—a figure widely disputed by international intelligence sources, which suggest that China’s actual casualties were significantly higher.

China’s Propaganda War vs. India’s Diplomatic Approach

Unlike China’s state-sponsored misinformation campaign, India has remained committed to facts and diplomatic engagement. The Galwan Valley clash, triggered by China’s violations of border agreements, was a result of Beijing’s aggressive territorial ambitions.

In contrast to China’s belligerent tactics, India has emphasized diplomacy over deception. New Delhi has repeatedly called for stability at the border, recognizing that lasting peace is essential for future relations.

India-China Relations: Cautious Steps Toward Stability

Despite China’s continued misinformation, efforts are being made to stabilize relations. On February 21, 2025, India’s External Affairs Minister, S. Jaishankar, met Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi on the sidelines of the G20 Foreign Ministers’ Meeting in South Africa to discuss bilateral relations and regional stability.

A major breakthrough came in late 2024 when both nations completed disengagement at the final friction points in eastern Ladakh—Depsang and Demchok. This move followed a high-level meeting between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Xi Jinping in Kazan, Russia, on October 23, 2024, where both leaders agreed to revive dialogue mechanisms and improve military-to-military communication.

China’s Contradictory Behavior: Misinformation vs. Diplomatic Talks

While Chinese officials express interest in rebuilding mutual trust, their state media continues to spread misinformation, creating an atmosphere of distrust. This two-faced approach raises doubts about Beijing’s sincerity in fostering a peaceful relationship.

Foreign Minister Wang Yi has stated that restoring stability and fostering “win-win cooperation” aligns with the interests of both countries. Yet, China’s actions contradict this commitment. At the same time, Jaishankar has emphasized the need for honest engagement, reaffirming India’s stance that peace at the border is essential for any meaningful progress.

The Road Ahead: Truth vs. Manufactured Narratives

China’s revisionist history and state-sponsored propaganda continue to cast a shadow over diplomatic efforts. While India remains focused on de-escalation and constructive dialogue, Beijing’s insistence on rewriting the past only fuels suspicion and hinders progress.

If China truly seeks peace and stability, it must abandon its manufactured narratives and focus on sincere diplomatic engagement. Until then, its attempts to manipulate historical events will only serve to expose its own contradictions.

Inputs from: Eurasian Times

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