National Security Advisor Ajit Doval met Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi on Wednesday to address the ongoing border issue between China and India. This meeting, part of the 23rd round of the Special Representatives’ talks, marks the first such discussion in five years.
Rebuilding Bilateral Relations
The two leaders were expected to discuss ways to rebuild diplomatic ties following the October 21 disengagement agreement in eastern Ladakh. This deal focused on disengagement and patrolling arrangements between the two countries.
Chinese Readiness for Cooperation
The Chinese Foreign Ministry expressed its readiness to work with India in implementing the key agreements reached between their leaders. They emphasized the importance of mutual respect for core interests and concerns, while aiming for stable and healthy development in bilateral relations.
Strengthening Trust through Dialogue
Chinese spokesperson Lin Jian stressed that both nations should strengthen mutual trust through continued dialogue, properly address differences, and approach their relationship with sincerity and goodwill.
Disengagement Progress
Earlier, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar informed the Indian Parliament that disengagement had been successfully achieved in eastern Ladakh, specifically in Depsang and Demchok. This was a step-by-step process leading to improved border stability.
Patrolling Agreement Reached
In October, India and China reached an agreement on patrolling along the Line of Actual Control (LAC), a significant development after the tense standoff that began in 2020 in eastern Ladakh, sparked by Chinese military actions. This agreement marks a crucial step in de-escalating tensions between the two nations.
