The coronavirus pandemic is an unexpected exogenic shock whose global impact—whilst principally on peoples’ health and livelihoods--will have significant secondary effects that could change human attitudes and behaviour around the world. At some point, the epidemic will settle. Could that be the time for a more productive relationship between India and China? Or will it be back to business as usual? Or will relations freeze further?

Ravi Bhoothalingam is Treasurer and Honorary Fellow of the Institute of Chinese Studies, Delhi, and an active writer and commentator on India-China business and cultural relations. He also sits on the Editorial Boards of China Report and World Affairs. During his corporate career of over 32 years in India and overseas, Ravi was a Board Director of ITC Ltd., Kolkata, Managing Director of VST Industries Ltd., Hyderabad, Head of Personnel of BAT Industries plc., London, and President of the Oberoi Group of Hotels, Delhi. Thereafter, Ravi set up his own consulting practice Manas Advisory focusing on top management psychological and leadership coaching.