NEW DELHI– External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar on Monday underscored that progress in India-China relations depends on the two countries’ ability to maintain peace along their disputed border, calling for continued efforts toward de-escalation.
Speaking at a meeting in New Delhi with visiting Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi, Jaishankar said that while broader global and regional issues are important, the foundation of bilateral momentum lies in stability on the frontier.
“You will, of course, be discussing border issues with our Special Representative, National Security Adviser Ajit Doval, tomorrow,” Jaishankar told Wang. “The basis for any positive momentum in our ties is the ability to jointly maintain peace and tranquility in the border areas. It is also essential that the de-escalation process move forward.”
The talks, attended by Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri and other senior officials, came shortly after Wang’s arrival for a two-day visit. The agenda includes boundary discussions with Doval and a scheduled meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday.
Jaishankar said the dialogue offers an opportunity not only to review bilateral ties but also to exchange views on global developments. He pointed to economic and trade cooperation, cultural and religious exchanges, river data sharing, and connectivity projects as areas of mutual interest.
“Having seen a difficult period in our relationship, our two nations now seek to move ahead,” he said. “This requires a candid and constructive approach from both sides, guided by the three mutuals — mutual respect, mutual sensitivity, and mutual interest. Differences must not become disputes, nor competition conflict.”
The minister added that India has worked closely with China during its presidency of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation, ahead of the bloc’s summit in Tianjin at the end of the month. He expressed hopes for “strong outcomes and decisions” from the gathering, which Modi is expected to attend.
Looking ahead, Jaishankar said he hoped the current round of discussions would help foster “a stable, cooperative and forward-looking relationship between India and China, one that serves both our interests and addresses our concerns.” (Source: IANS)
