Is the India-China relationship improving?

Beijing, July 14 (NationPress) - The External Affairs Minister (EAM) S. Jaishankar remarked on Monday that the relationship between India and China has been steadily progressing in a favorable direction following the meeting between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping in Kazan in October 2024.

"Our bilateral relationship necessitates a forward-thinking approach to our connections. Since the meeting of our leaders in Kazan in October 2024, the relationship between India and China has been gradually advancing positively. It is our duty to sustain that momentum," said EAM Jaishankar during his initial remarks at a meeting with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi.

"Over the past nine months, we have made significant strides toward normalizing our bilateral relations. This progress is attributed to the resolution of tensions along the border and our capacity to maintain peace and stability in that region. This forms the essential foundation for mutual strategic trust and the seamless development of our relations. It is now our responsibility to tackle other border-related matters, including de-escalation," he continued.

The EAM’s visit to China marks his first since the violent altercation in Galwan Valley in May 2020, as he attends the SCO Foreign Ministers Meeting in Tianjin.

Praising the Chinese side for a successful presidency of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO), EAM Jaishankar emphasized that both parties have had numerous opportunities for interaction at international events and for strategic dialogue recently.

"We will convene again tomorrow, and India is dedicated to achieving positive outcomes and decisions," he stated, expressing hope for more frequent bilateral engagements in each other's nations.

The External Affairs Minister also expressed gratitude to the Chinese authorities for their support in resuming the Kailash Manasarovar Yatra after a five-year hiatus.

"As neighboring nations and significant global economies, our relationship encompasses multiple facets and dimensions. Initiatives aimed at normalizing our people-to-people exchanges can undoubtedly promote mutually beneficial cooperation. It is crucial in this context to avoid restrictive trade measures and obstacles. I look forward to discussing these matters more comprehensively," Jaishankar remarked.

Highlighting that both countries are celebrating the 75th anniversary of their diplomatic ties, the EAM noted that stable and constructive relations between India and China are advantageous for the entire world.

"This is best achieved through managing relations based on mutual respect, interest, and sensitivity. We have also previously concurred that differences should not escalate into disputes, nor should competition turn into conflict. On this foundation, we can continue to develop our relationship positively," he stated.

During Monday’s discussions, both sides will exchange perspectives on global and regional issues before engaging in conversations within the SCO framework on Tuesday.

Looking forward to a "constructive and forward-looking exchange" of views, the EAM mentioned that the primary mission of the SCO is to "combat terrorism, separatism, and extremism."

"This is a shared concern, and India expects that a strong stance against terrorism will be maintained," EAM Jaishankar concluded.