Daijiworld Media Network - New Delhi
New Delhi, Aug 18: In a crucial diplomatic exchange aimed at repairing frayed relations, external affairs minister S. Jaishankar met with Chinese foreign minister Wang Yi in New Delhi on Monday. He described the visit as a chance to review the state of bilateral ties and to exchange perspectives on broader global challenges.
During the opening of the talks, Jaishankar noted that India and China have experienced a difficult phase in their relationship, particularly following the 2020 military standoff along the Line of Actual Control in eastern Ladakh. While disengagement has taken place at some points, he stressed that full de-escalation and peace along the border remain essential to any forward movement in ties.
Emphasising a cooperative approach, Jaishankar said that moving ahead requires candid and constructive dialogue based on mutual respect, mutual sensitivity, and mutual interest. He cautioned that differences between the two countries must not escalate into disputes, nor should competition become conflict.
The discussions between the two sides are expected to address a range of issues, including trade, people-to-people ties, river data sharing, and border trade. Jaishankar said he would also raise several concerns he had flagged during his July 2025 visit to China.
Wang Yi’s visit comes ahead of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Summit in Tianjin and is the first high-level trip by a Chinese minister to India since the October 2024 meeting between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping on the sidelines of the BRICS Summit in Kazan, Russia.
On Tuesday, Wang is scheduled to meet India’s National Security Adviser Ajit Doval for the 24th round of Special Representatives talks on the boundary question. Jaishankar underscored the importance of maintaining stability and peace in the border regions as a prerequisite for restoring momentum in bilateral relations.
He also linked the talks to larger global issues, noting the need for a balanced and multipolar world order, and reiterating India's support for reformed multilateralism. In addition, he highlighted shared interests in maintaining global economic stability and combating terrorism in all forms.
Welcoming Wang Yi and his delegation, Jaishankar expressed hope that the discussions would help build a more stable and cooperative future for India-China relations—one that serves mutual interests while addressing ongoing concerns.