India and China Chart Path for Normalized Ties Amidst Global Shifts
Beijing, China – India and China are actively working to normalize their bilateral relations, with both nations emphasizing a "far-seeing approach" to their engagement. This comes as External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar concluded a significant visit to Beijing, marking his first trip to China in six years.
Speaking at a meeting, Jaishankar extended wishes for a successful Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) presidency to the Chinese side, affirming India's commitment to positive outcomes from the upcoming SCO meeting. He highlighted that since the leaders' meeting in Kazan in October 2024, the India-China relationship has shown a gradual, positive trajectory.
"Our responsibility is to maintain that long term," Jaishankar stated, noting that both sides have recently had multiple opportunities for strategic communication at international events. He expressed the expectation that such engagements would become regular, including visits to each other's countries.
This year marks the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations between India and China. A tangible sign of improving ties is the resumption of the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra after a five-year hiatus, for which Jaishankar thanked the Chinese side for their cooperation.
Border Resolution and De-escalation Priorities
Jaishankar acknowledged significant progress in normalizing bilateral relations over the past nine months, attributing it to the resolution of friction along the border and the ability to maintain peace and tranquility. "This is the fundamental basis of our mutual strategic trust and for smooth development of bilateral relations," he asserted.
He emphasized the need to address other border-related aspects, including de-escalation. As major economies and neighboring nations, India and China recognize the multifaceted nature of their ties. Measures to normalize people-to-people exchanges are seen as crucial for fostering mutually beneficial cooperation. Jaishankar also stressed the importance of avoiding restrictive trade measures and roadblocks to economic collaboration.
Global Benefit and Counter-Terrorism Focus
"Stable and constructive ties between India and China are not only to our benefit but that of the world as well," Jaishankar declared. He underscored that this is best achieved by handling relations based on mutual respect, mutual interest, and mutual sensitivity. He reiterated the prior agreement that "differences should not become disputes nor should competition ever become conflict." On this foundation, both nations can continue to develop their ties along a positive trajectory.
The upcoming SCO meeting will focus on its primary mandate: combating terrorism, separatism, and extremism. "This is a shared concern and India hopes that zero tolerance for terrorism will be strongly upheld," Jaishankar concluded, signaling India's firm stance on regional security.
This visit and the discussions held signify a renewed push by both India and China to stabilize and strengthen their relationship, recognizing its regional and global implications.
