Is the Border Issue Really 'Very Complex' and How Long Will It Take to Resolve?

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Is the Border Issue Really 'Very Complex' and How Long Will It Take to Resolve?

Synopsis

The complex border issue between China and India remains unresolved, according to Ambassador Xu Feihong. As both nations engage in diplomatic talks, the need for patience and strategic planning is emphasized to maintain peace. Discover insights on the evolving relationship and potential solutions in this detailed report.

Key Takeaways

  • Ongoing discussions on the border issue illustrate the complexity of the situation.
  • Ambassador Xu Feihong emphasizes the need for patience in reaching a resolution.
  • Both nations are committed to maintaining peace through strategic cooperation.
  • People-to-people exchanges are vital for enhancing mutual understanding.
  • The border issue should not overshadow the broader China-India relationship.

New Delhi, Nov 25 (NationPress) Xu Feihong, China's Ambassador to India, remarked on Tuesday that despite ongoing Special Representatives' Talks concerning the Boundary Question, the matter is intricate and will require time for resolution.

"In recent years, the China-India border situation has been predominantly stable, with both nations engaging in meticulous communication regarding the border through diplomatic and military avenues. This August, China and India conducted the 24th Special Representatives’ Talks, achieving a consensus that includes 10 critical points. Recently, the militaries of both countries convened for the 23rd Corps Commander Level Meeting in the western sector, facilitating thorough discussions on the management and control of this area," noted Ambassador Xu Feihong during an event titled 'China's 15th Five-Year Plan: New Blueprint for China's Development, New Opportunities for China-India Cooperation'.

The Ambassador responded to inquiries about the current status of the India-China border as both nations strive towards disengagement, de-escalation, and troop demobilization.

"The China-India border issue is indeed very intricate and will take significant time to resolve. I am confident that, as two ancient civilizations, China and India possess the wisdom and capability to uphold peace and calm in the border regions, ultimately discovering a solution that is fair, rational, and mutually acceptable. China is eager to collaborate with India, utilizing the critical consensus established by both leaders to enhance normalized boundary management and control, advance the process of management and de-escalation, and jointly uphold peace and tranquility in the border areas," he elaborated.

He further stated, "Nonetheless, the border issue does not encapsulate the entirety of the China-India relationship. It is essential to approach China-India relations from a strategic and long-term viewpoint, placing the border issue in its proper context within the relationship, rather than allowing it to define bilateral relations and hinder exchanges and cooperation. This approach aligns with the fundamental interests of both nations and the collective aspirations of their peoples."

The 23rd round of India-China Corps Commander Level Meeting occurred at the Chushul-Moldo border meeting point on October 25, marking the first assembly of the General Level Mechanism in the Western Sector since the 24th round of Special Representatives Talks on August 19. As per the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), the discussions unfolded in a friendly and cordial environment.

"Both parties acknowledged progress since the 22nd round of Corps Commander Level Meeting held in October 2024 and concurred that peace and tranquility have been preserved in the India-China border regions. Both sides committed to continuing to utilize existing mechanisms to address any ground issues along the border to maintain stability," stated the MEA following the meeting.

The Chinese Ambassador emphasized that enhancing mutual understanding through people-to-people exchanges is vital.

"Currently, the China-India relationship is witnessing a positive trajectory, offering expanded opportunities for exchanges between our peoples. Undoubtedly, interactions between individuals are boundless. I hope both sides will bolster exchanges and cooperation in various sectors such as political parties, think tanks, youth, culture, and education, and promptly resume the mutual exchange of resident journalists. As Ambassador, I aspire to witness more Chinese entrepreneurs visiting India for business and an influx of Chinese tourists eager to explore India's rich history and vibrant culture. I firmly believe that a future where the people of China and India exchange visits akin to familial visits will strengthen the bonds of friendship and goodwill, fostering increased understanding and trust between our nations," he concluded.

Point of View

I affirm that while the border issue is significant, it should not dominate the broader context of China-India relations. Ensuring diplomatic dialogue and fostering mutual cooperation will ultimately serve the best interests of both nations.
NationPress
25/11/2025

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the current status of the China-India border talks?
The talks are ongoing, with both nations engaging in dialogue through Special Representatives to address the complex border issue.
How does the border issue affect China-India relations?
While crucial, the border issue should not define the entirety of China-India relations; strategic cooperation is essential.
What steps are both countries taking to manage the border situation?
Both countries are conducting meetings, agreeing on points of consensus, and maintaining communication through diplomatic and military channels.
What is the importance of people-to-people exchanges?
They enhance mutual understanding and foster a stronger relationship between the two nations, contributing to long-term cooperation.
What is the future outlook for China-India relations?
With ongoing dialogue and a focus on mutual interests, there is potential for improved relations, but patience is required.
Nation Press