Jaishankar Says Stable Border Remains Key To Restoring Normal India-China Bilateral Ties

External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar on Wednesday told his Chinese counterpart Wang Yi that peace and tranquillity along the India-China border remain the essential foundation for normal bilateral relations. The two leaders met on the sidelines of ASEAN-related meetings in Manila as both countries continue efforts to rebuild ties following years of military tensions along the Line of Actual Control (LAC). During the meeting, Jaishankar also raised India's concerns regarding fair market access for Indian businesses in China, balanced trade relations and the need for predictable supply chains.

The discussions reflected New Delhi's broader emphasis on addressing both strategic and economic issues as the two Asian powers work towards stabilising their relationship. The talks took place against the backdrop of gradual diplomatic engagement following the military stand-off along the LAC that began in 2020 and continued for more than four years. Although both sides have taken steps to reduce tensions, India has consistently maintained that lasting improvement in bilateral relations depends on sustained peace in the border areas.

Following the meeting, Jaishankar said on social media that he had held a wide-ranging discussion with Wang. He reiterated India's position that a stable and cooperative relationship between the two countries should be built on "mutual respect, mutual interest and mutual sensitivity." According to Jaishankar, such an approach would contribute not only to stronger bilateral ties but also to the development of a multipolar Asia and a multipolar world. His remarks reflected India's long-standing diplomatic position that strategic trust and respect for each other's core interests are essential for improving relations.

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The meeting follows Wang Yi's visit to India in June, when he held discussions with National Security Adviser Ajit Doval to review progress in the process of normalising ties. That engagement marked another step in the ongoing dialogue between the two countries after years of strained relations. India and China have been working through diplomatic and military channels to address issues arising from the border stand-off. While disengagement has taken place at several friction points, both governments have acknowledged that broader normalisation requires continued dialogue and confidence-building measures.

Economic issues also remain a significant aspect of the bilateral relationship. India has repeatedly highlighted concerns over trade imbalances, market access for Indian companies and the resilience of supply chains, while continuing economic engagement with China despite geopolitical differences. The meeting in Manila demonstrates that both countries remain committed to maintaining diplomatic communication even as unresolved issues persist.

Officials from both sides are expected to continue discussions through existing bilateral mechanisms aimed at reducing tensions and expanding cooperation where possible. Jaishankar's remarks underscore India's consistent position that improvements in political, economic and strategic ties with China are closely linked to maintaining peace and stability along the shared border, making border management a central element of the overall bilateral relationship.

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