Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi emphasized the need for India and China to see each other as "partners" rather than threats during his recent two-day visit to New Delhi. This visit, which included a meeting with Indian Foreign Minister S Jaishankar, was only their second official interaction since the tensions escalated following the violent clashes in the Galwan Valley in 2020. Wang expressed optimism about the current state of relations, stating they are trending positively towards cooperation prior to his meeting with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi scheduled for Tuesday.
Jaishankar echoed these sentiments, highlighting both nations' desire to move beyond past difficulties. The discussions between the two ministers spanned various topics, including trade, pilgrimages, and data sharing concerning river management. Additionally, Wang met with India's National Security Advisor Ajit Doval to negotiate ongoing boundary issues, asserting that border stability has been restored.
This visit signifies a thaw in the historically tense relationship between the nuclear-armed countries. Following an agreement to enhance patrolling arrangements along the disputed Himalayan border last October, both nations have initiated steps to normalize diplomatic relations; India has resumed visa services for Chinese tourists, and China allowed Indian pilgrims to enter Tibet again. Speculation surrounds the potential resumption of direct flights between India and China this year.
Wang's discussions are pivotal in laying the groundwork for Prime Minister Modi’s upcoming visit to China for the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit—the first in seven years. There are anticipations for bilateral discussions between Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping, although official confirmation remains absent.
This diplomatic engagement occurs amid rising tensions between India and the US, particularly following the imposition of steep tariffs on Indian imports by the Trump administration. Criticism has emerged regarding India's close ties with both Russia and China, with calls for India to act in alignment with US strategic interests.
Finally, Jaishankar underscored the pursuit of a balanced global order, speaking of the need for reforms in multilateralism and the importance of enhancing global economic stability.
