In a significant diplomatic engagement, India’s External Affairs Minister (EAM) met with Wang Yi, Member of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Political Bureau and Foreign Minister, on July 4, 2024. The meeting took place on the sidelines of the SCO Council of Heads of State Meeting in Astana, Kazakhstan. The primary focus was to address the ongoing border tensions in Eastern Ladakh and to explore avenues for stabilizing bilateral relations between the two nations.

Both acknowledged that the prolonged border situation benefits neither side. Jaishankar emphasized the necessity of accelerating efforts to achieve complete disengagement from the remaining contentious areas and restore peace and tranquility along the border. This, he argued, is crucial for removing obstacles to normalizing bilateral relations.

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) stated that the ministers agreed to intensify and continue meetings between their diplomatic and military officials.

The minister reiterated the importance of adhering to bilateral agreements, protocols, and understandings reached between India and China over the years. He stressed that respecting the LAC and maintaining peace in the border areas should be a priority for both nations.

According to an official statement issued by the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA),  the ministers agreed on the need for continued and intensified meetings between their diplomatic and military officials. They resolved that the Working Mechanism on Consultation and Coordination on India-China Border Affairs (WMCC) should convene an early meeting to expedite the resolution of the remaining issues. Jaishankar reaffirmed that the India-China relationship is best maintained by upholding the principles of mutual respect, mutual sensitivity, and mutual interests.

The outcome of this meeting is expected to set the tone for future interactions and negotiations between the two countries.

In addition to the border issues, the two ministers exchanged views on the global situation. He expressed India’s support for China’s upcoming presidency of the SCO, highlighting the importance of cooperation within the organization.

This meeting marked a significant step in the ongoing dialogue between India and China, aiming to resolve border tensions and enhance bilateral relations. Both sides showed a willingness to work towards a peaceful and stable relationship, emphasizing the need for mutual understanding and cooperation.

The outcome of this meeting is expected to set the tone for future interactions and negotiations between the two countries.