India and China are focusing on strategies to restore the relations between the two nations to before 2020 status, Indian Express reported. This comes after the recent meeting in Kazan between PM Narendra Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping. Senior Chinese officials highlighted the ”chemistry” displayed during the meeting between the two leaders and expressed confidence related to several proposals which are currently under discussion. The aim is to normalize the ties that have been strained due to border conflicts that took place along the Actual Line Control (LAC) since April-May 2020.
To revive the bilateral relationship, measures like resuming direct flights, easing off visa restrictions on Chinese nationals and diplomats, allowing Chinese journalists to work in India and removing the ban on mobile applications have been proposed, according to Chinese officials. Moreover, India has been encouraged to allow the release of more Indian films in Chinese cinemas along with other cultural exchanges. All these demands were shared during a recent discussion that was held between Chinese representatives and an Indian media delegation. The event was also marked to be as a significant interaction conducted since the LAC disengagement.
Beijing, on the other hand, is expecting Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to China for the upcoming Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit. During the BRICS Summit 2024 in Kazan, Chinese officials stated that ”the personal friendship” between PM Modi and Xi is helping to initiate an ”ice-breaking” encounter without relying on already prepared talking points. This level of interaction, they said, showcases commitment from both sides in resolving path differences and looking forward to future collaboration.
In an attempt to advance the dialogue, both leaders have asked their foreign Ministers, Deputy foreign ministers, and special representatives to indulge in discussion on strategic issues. Additionally, the two nations are all set to engage on the sidelines of the G20 summit in Brazil which is scheduled to take place in mid-November. ”The ball is in India’s court,” a Chinese representative stated, emphasizing China’s preparedness to discuss issues beyond border concerns, like artificial intelligence, climate change, and green energy transitions.
The officials also suggested that though border issues are crucial they should not dominate the bilateral partnership. Notably, as a major political shift under US President-elect Donald Trump is to take place, officials also hinted that India and China may find common ground on the shared challenges. The key to adopting in the future is to maintain consistent dialogue and avoid external pressures, as advised by the officials.