India is undertaking discussions with China to enhance bilateral relations following troop disengagement along the border. External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar highlighted topics such as resuming pilgrimages, reinstating flights, and addressing shared river management. Progress has been made since tensions escalated in 2020, with key diplomatic meetings signifying a commitment to repair relations.
India is actively pursuing measures to stabilize and enhance its relationship with China after addressing urgent troop disengagement issues along the border. External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar indicated discussions are ongoing regarding the resumption of pilgrimages to religious sites, the reinstatement of direct flights, and increased exchanges of journalists. These discussions were reported during an event at Chatham House, focusing on India’s global role and growth.
Furthermore, the two nations are evaluating agreements concerning shared river management, which had been stalled due to deteriorating relations post-2020. “We are looking at this package (and) people tasked with that mandate are dealing with each other,” affirmed Minister Jaishankar.
Reflecting on the tense situation from 2020, Jaishankar mentioned that the relationship deteriorated following clashes along the Line of Actual Control, resulting in fatalities on both sides in the Galwan Valley. He pointed out that these were the first lethal confrontations in nearly five decades. Last year, efforts were made to mend ties between the two countries.
Jaishankar noted significant progress in October 2024, which involved resolving urgent disputes related to troop disengagement. Subsequent meetings between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Xi Jinping, as well as diplomatic engagements involving National Security Advisor Ajit Doval and Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri, signify ongoing commitments to restoring bilateral relations. An agreement to address the disputes stemming from 2020 was announced last year by Foreign Secretary Misri after extensive negotiations.
In summary, India is working diligently to strengthen its ties with China by addressing past border conflicts and fostering cooperation through dialogue and agreements. The restoration of diplomatic relations, shared river management discussions, and cultural exchanges are key areas of focus moving forward. These efforts aim to establish a stable, predictable, and positive trajectory in the relationship between the two neighboring nations.
Original Source: www.ndtv.com
