Peace, tranquility in border areas essential for relationship to grow: EAM Jaishankar on China

External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar on Wednesday stressed that India seeks a stable relationship with China, one where India’s interests are respected and its sensitivities acknowledged.

Jaishankar made these remarks during a discussion with Chatham House Director Bronwen Maddox, held in collaboration with the High Commission of India.

“The key issue is how to create a stable equilibrium and transition into the next phase of equilibriums. We want a stable relationship where our interests are respected, our sensitivities are recognized, and where it works for both of us. That is really the main challenge in our relationship,” Jaishankar said.

Jaishankar also discussed the disruption in India-China relations due to China’s actions along the Line of Actual Control in 2020. However, he noted that many urgent issues, including troop disengagement, were resolved by October 2024. He mentioned meetings between leaders and officials from both sides and ongoing discussions to make the relationship more stable and positive.

The foreign minister outlined ongoing talks on issues such as the resumption of pilgrimages to Mount Kailash, direct flights, and trans-border river mechanisms that were halted after 2020. He acknowledged challenges but expressed hope for a resolution in the near future.

The external affairs minister emphasized that India and China share a “very unique relationship,” noting that both countries are the only ones with populations exceeding a billion. He highlighted that the challenge lies in balancing their rising trajectories while managing their shared border.