India is discussing ways to improve relations with China, focusing on resuming pilgrimages, flights, and journalist exchanges. External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar stated they are working on resolving trans-border river issues and addressing past tensions stemming from the 2020 conflict. Key meetings between leaders from both nations have occurred recently, indicating a positive trajectory in their relationship.
India is actively engaged in discussions with China to establish a more stable and positive relationship following the resolution of urgent issues regarding troop disengagement at their border. External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar articulated these discussions, which include resuming pilgrimages to religious sites controlled by China, reinstating direct flights, and facilitating exchanges among journalists during an event at Chatham House in London.
Jaishankar emphasized that efforts are being directed towards resolving various issues, particularly those related to shared rivers. “The mechanism for dealing with trans-border rivers had stopped to meet because of the disruption in relations after 2020,” he explained, highlighting ongoing dialogues among responsible personnel.
The relationship between India and China has faced significant strains since 2020 due to aggressive actions taken by Chinese forces along the Line of Actual Control, which resulted in fatalities among both Indian and Chinese troops. These confrontations marked the first deadly border clash in over four decades, prompting both nations to seek avenues for reparation in their ties.
Indicating progress, Jaishankar noted that many urgent issues were addressed by October 2024, particularly concerning troop disengagement. Following this resolution, he pointed out meetings between Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping at the BRICS summit, alongside discussions with Foreign Minister Wang Yi.
Additionally, significant dialogues included visits by India’s National Security Advisor Ajit Doval and Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri to China, demonstrating a commitment to fostering improved bilateral relations. Last year, an agreement was finalized to resolve issues stemming from the 2020 border conflict, as confirmed by Foreign Secretary Misri in Delhi.
In conclusion, India is making concerted efforts to enhance its relationship with China by addressing longstanding issues related to border troop disengagement and various cooperative mechanisms. Both nations anticipate a renewed partnership focused on mutual benefit, underscoring the importance of diplomatic dialogue and collaboration moving forward. The recent engagements signal a crucial turning point in settling past disputes and fostering a more stable bilateral rapport.
Original Source: www.ndtv.com
