India-China Relations Must Rest on Mutual Respect, MEA
India-China Relations: Jaishankar Stresses ‘Three Mutuals’ in Talks with Wang Yi
External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar on Monday underlined that the future of India-China relations must be guided by “mutual respect, mutual sensitivity and mutual interest,” as he held talks with visiting Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi in New Delhi.
The meeting, which came soon after Mr. Wang landed in the capital for a two-day visit, was described as a crucial step in efforts to stabilize ties between the two Asian giants.
“This occasion provides us an opportunity to review our bilateral ties and exchange views on the global situation,” Mr. Jaishankar remarked in his opening statement. “Having seen a difficult period in our relationship, Excellency, our two nations now seek to move ahead. Differences must not become disputes, nor competition conflict.”
India-China Relations: Rebuilding Trust After a Difficult Phase
The dialogue between the two ministers comes against the backdrop of strained ties since the 2020 Galwan Valley clashes, which marked one of the lowest points in India-China relations in decades.
Jaishankar stressed the need for a “candid and constructive” approach to heal the wounds of the past and lay down a framework for cooperation. He highlighted that managing differences with wisdom was critical to ensuring peace.
Responding to this, Mr. Wang stated, “The basis for any positive momentum in our ties is to maintain peace and tranquillity on our border.”
Boundary Talks on the Agenda
Mr. Wang is in India primarily to take part in the next round of the Special Representatives (SR) dialogue on the boundary question. He and National Security Adviser Ajit Doval, the designated SRs for both nations, are set to hold talks on Tuesday (August 19).
During this dialogue, the two sides are expected to explore new confidence-building measures to ensure lasting peace and stability along the contested border regions.
Mr. Wang’s itinerary also includes a meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi at his official residence, 7 Lok Kalyan Marg, scheduled for Tuesday evening.
India-China Relations: Strategic Timing of the Visit
Observers note that the visit comes just days before PM Modi’s planned trip to China for the annual Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit. The timing underscores the delicate balancing act underway in India-China relations.
Adding to the complexity is the recent strain in India’s ties with the United States, following President Donald Trump’s decision to double tariffs on Indian goods to 50% while penalizing New Delhi further with a 25% surcharge on its purchase of Russian crude oil.
Against this backdrop, Wang Yi’s visit is being seen as an effort to recalibrate ties between New Delhi and Beijing while also setting the stage for broader regional cooperation.
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