What Did EAM Jaishankar Discuss with China? Key Takeaways from His Beijing Visit

Strengthening India-China Relations

Beijing/New Delhi: During discussions with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi, India's External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar emphasized the importance of building on the recent positive developments in bilateral relations to tackle border issues and promote de-escalation. He highlighted the necessity of avoiding restrictive trade practices and obstacles.

In his opening remarks, Jaishankar expressed optimism that the relationship could evolve positively, stressing that differences should not escalate into disputes and competition should not lead to conflict. He reiterated that mutual respect, interest, and sensitivity are crucial for strengthening ties.

Jaishankar also conveyed India's expectation for a firm stance against terrorism at the upcoming Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) meeting, indirectly referencing Pakistan's involvement in cross-border terrorism.

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) characterized the discussions as constructive, noting that both nations agreed to implement practical measures to enhance people-to-people exchanges, including travel and direct flight connections.

This visit marks Jaishankar's first trip to China since the deterioration of relations following the Galwan Valley clashes in June 2020. He arrived in China to participate in the SCO conclave.

The MEA highlighted the need for collaboration on trans-border rivers and the resumption of hydrological data sharing from China.

Jaishankar also met with Chinese Vice President Han Zheng, emphasizing that ongoing normalization of relations could yield mutually beneficial results.

In the past nine months, India and China have worked towards normalizing relations after resolving military tensions along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) in October of the previous year. Despite troop disengagement from certain friction points, both sides maintain significant military presence along the border.

Jaishankar pointed out the importance of avoiding restrictive trade measures, particularly concerning critical minerals and fertilizer supplies, which he implied were issues stemming from China's policies.

He noted the progress made in normalizing relations over the past nine months, attributing it to the resolution of border tensions and the maintenance of peace.

The minister reiterated that stable and constructive relations between India and China benefit not only the two nations but also the global community.

Jaishankar emphasized the need for a forward-looking approach to bilateral relations, referencing a previous meeting between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Xi Jinping in Kazan last year.

He expressed hope for regular strategic communication between the two nations, highlighting the significance of the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations and the resumption of the Kailash Manasarovar Yatra after a five-year hiatus.

The MEA noted Jaishankar's emphasis on the positive impact of peace along the border for the development of bilateral relations and supported ongoing de-escalation efforts.

Jaishankar and Wang also discussed regional and global issues of mutual interest, agreeing to maintain communication through bilateral visits.

Wang acknowledged the changing international landscape and the challenges posed by unilateralism and protectionism, advocating for harmony and mutual success between the two major economies.

He reiterated the importance of mutual respect and trust, peaceful coexistence, and win-win cooperation, suggesting that both nations should pursue long-term strategies for good-neighborliness.

Jaishankar's visit follows a recent trip by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh to China, highlighting ongoing diplomatic engagements between the two countries.

The military standoff in eastern Ladakh began in May 2020, culminating in a deadly clash in June that severely strained relations. The disengagement process was finalized in October, paving the way for renewed dialogue.

The meeting between Modi and Xi in Kazan was pivotal in setting the direction for improving India-China relations.