India and China have made significant progress in improving their relations with the signing of a six-point agreement on Wednesday (December 18). The agreement includes key initiatives such as the resumption of the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra, Nathula border trade, and cooperation on cross-border river management.
The announcement followed a meeting between India’s National Security Adviser Ajit Doval and Chinese Vice President Han Zheng in Beijing. During their discussions, Han emphasised the importance of gradually resuming institutional dialogue and enhancing cooperation in areas such as the economy, trade, and culture. The goal, he stated, is to steer bilateral ties back onto a path of stable and constructive development.
Boosting cross-border exchanges and cooperation
Both nations agreed to bolster cross-border exchanges and collaboration, including plans to resume the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra for Indian pilgrims in Tibet, enhance cooperation on cross-border river management, and promote trade through the Nathu La pass.
Next meeting in India
Both sides concurred on convening the next round of Special Representatives’ meetings in India next year, with the exact date to be determined through diplomatic channels.
Both sides acknowledged the progress achieved in addressing border issues and stressed the importance of continuing to implement agreed solutions. They reaffirmed the need to approach the border issue within the broader framework of bilateral relations, ensuring it does not negatively impact overall ties. Both countries committed to maintaining peace and stability in the border regions while fostering the healthy and stable development of their bilateral relationship.