Indian National Security Advisor (NSA) Ajit Doval met with his Chinese counterpart Wang Yi in Beijing on Wednesday during the 23rd meeting of the Special Representatives of India and China. This was the first high-level meeting between the two officials since tensions escalated between India and China in the Western sector of the Line of Actual Control (LAC) in 2020.
The meeting follows a decision made during a recent encounter between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping in Kazan, where they agreed on the importance of restoring peace and tranquility in border areas and working towards a fair, reasonable, and mutually acceptable resolution of the boundary question.
Key Outcomes of the Meeting
- Reaffirmation of Disengagement Implementation
Both leaders positively acknowledged the recent disengagement efforts in the Demchok and Depsang regions, which have restored patrolling and grazing rights in these areas. They stressed the significance of maintaining peace along the border to avoid disruptions in broader bilateral relations. - Commitment to Peaceful Border Management
Drawing lessons from the events of 2020, Doval and Wang discussed strategies to sustain peace along the LAC. They emphasized utilizing diplomatic and military mechanisms effectively to manage border issues and maintain tranquility. - Resumption of Key Activities
Discussions included the revival of the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra, data sharing on trans-border rivers, and enhancing border trade. These measures aim to restore normalcy in bilateral exchanges. - Strengthening Bilateral and Global Cooperation
The two leaders exchanged views on regional and global issues of mutual interest and affirmed the importance of stable and amicable relations between India and China for regional and global peace and prosperity. - Invitation for Further Talks
NSA Ajit Doval extended an invitation to Wang Yi to visit India at a mutually convenient date for the next round of Special Representatives meetings, signaling a continued commitment to dialogue.
Significance of the Meeting
The meeting highlights a renewed focus on resolving long-standing border disputes and advancing bilateral ties. Both nations recognize the necessity of maintaining a broader political perspective while addressing specific border issues to prevent tensions from hindering overall relations.
The outcomes of this meeting, including disengagement progress and the resumption of cultural and trade exchanges, signal cautious optimism for the future of India-China relations.
