In his statement to the Lok Sabha, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar provided an update on the state of India-China relations, highlighting a shift towards improvement after a period of tension. The relationship had been deeply affected since 2020, following violent clashes in the Galwan Valley that led to fatalities and escalated border tensions. Jaishankar acknowledged that while the ties were “abnormal” due to these disruptions, recent diplomatic and military efforts have set the stage for progress.
Source:- bbc news
He emphasized that the key to restoring normalcy in the relationship is peace along the Line of Actual Control (LAC). The minister reiterated that peace and tranquillity in border areas are fundamental for moving forward with broader bilateral ties. The disengagement agreement reached in the Depsang and Demchok areas in October 2024, after intense negotiations, was a significant step toward de-escalation, and patrolling activities have resumed in some traditional areas.
Source:- news18
Jaishankar also outlined India’s strategic approach, based on three principles: respecting the LAC, avoiding any unilateral change to the status quo, and adhering to past agreements. These principles have formed the backbone of India’s engagement with China, particularly over the last four years, and they continue to guide the diplomatic framework.
The minister also highlighted high-level engagements between the two countries, including Prime Minister Modi’s meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping at the BRICS summit in October 2024. This was the first such meeting in nearly five years, reflecting an openness to direct communication between the leadership despite the strained relationship. Jaishankar pointed out that these diplomatic exchanges, coupled with military discussions, are crucial in managing ongoing challenges, especially concerning border issues.
In conclusion, Jaishankar stressed that while India is focused on restoring peace at the border, there is also a broader emphasis on ensuring national security and protecting India’s interests in all aspects of its relationship with China. The path forward, he noted, will depend on continuous diplomatic efforts and managing tensions effectively in the border areas to foster a stable and balanced relationship between the two countries.
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