Can EAM Jaishankar and Chinese Vice President Han Zheng Foster 'Mutually Beneficial' Relations?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Jaishankar emphasized the need for open dialogue between India and China.
- Normalisation of ties can lead to mutually beneficial outcomes.
- The resumption of the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra marks a positive development.
- Current global dynamics necessitate cooperation between major economies.
- High-level diplomacy is crucial following recent tensions.
Beijing, July 14 (NationPress) External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar, during his meeting with Chinese Vice President Han Zheng on Monday, underscored that the ongoing normalisation of relations between India and China can lead to "mutually beneficial" outcomes.
He stressed the significance of transparent dialogue and the exchange of insights as vital between two major neighbouring economies.
Jaishankar, who is currently on a three-day trip to China for the Foreign Ministers' Meeting of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) in Tianjin, engaged in discussions with Vice President Han shortly after arriving in Beijing.
At the outset of their meeting, Jaishankar remarked, "Our bilateral relationship, as you have noted, has been consistently improving since the discussions between Prime Minister Modi and President Xi Jinping in Kazan last October. I am optimistic that my conversations during this visit will continue this positive trend."
In celebration of the 75th anniversary of India-China diplomatic relations, Jaishankar pointed out a significant event: the renewal of the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra, which had been halted for five years due to the Covid-19 pandemic and ensuing border tensions.
"The renewal of the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra is greatly appreciated in India. Ongoing normalisation of our ties can result in mutually advantageous outcomes," he remarked.
Addressing the current global landscape, Jaishankar stated, "The international situation we face today is quite intricate. As neighbouring nations and significant economies, an open exchange of views between India and China is crucial."
He expressed eagerness for such dialogues during his visit.
After the meeting, Jaishankar shared on social media: "Delighted to meet Vice President Han Zheng shortly after my arrival in Beijing today. Communicated India's backing for China's SCO Presidency."
"I acknowledged the enhancement in our bilateral relations and conveyed confidence that discussions during my visit will uphold this positive trajectory," he added.
This marks EAM Jaishankar's inaugural visit to China following the deadly Galwan Valley clash in June 2020, which severely impacted bilateral ties.
While he has engaged with his Chinese counterpart at multilateral events since then, this visit represents a pivotal step in high-level diplomatic communication amidst ongoing border issues.