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India and China Seek Enhanced Bilateral Relations Through Cooperation

The India-China meeting aimed to resume cross-border cooperation and the Kailash-Mansarovar Yatra. Discussions included reviewing border management and preparing for future meetings. Prime Minister Modi’s emphasis on dialogue reflects a commitment to improve relations following previous tensions. Both nations recognized the importance of cooperation as they move towards normalcy along their border.

On March 25, 2025, the 33rd meeting of the Working Mechanism for Consultation & Coordination on India-China Border Affairs was held in Beijing. Discussions focused on the resumption of cross-border cooperation, including sharing information related to trans-border rivers and the early resumption of the Kailash-Mansarovar Yatra. These decisions were part of ongoing efforts to foster bilateral relations, as stated by the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA).

During this meeting, officials from both nations reviewed the current situation along the Line of Actual Control in border areas. The MEA emphasized that maintaining peace and tranquility along the border is essential for enhancing overall bilateral relations. Both parties agreed on substantial preparations for the upcoming Special Representatives meeting to be hosted in India later this year.

The meeting’s atmosphere was described as positive and constructive, highlighting mutual commitment to advancing border management initiatives. The Indian delegation was led by Gourangalal Das, the Joint Secretary (East Asia), while the Chinese delegation was headed by Hong Liang, the Director General of the Boundary & Oceanic Affairs Department of the Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs. During their visit, Mr. Das also paid a courtesy call on Assistant Foreign Minister Hong Lei.

The recent meeting follows Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s statements promoting dialogue over discord in India-China relations. Prime Minister Modi acknowledged existing differences but expressed hope that these would not escalate into disputes. He highlighted the success of previous talks with President Xi Jinping in returning to a state of normalcy along the border.

In response to PM Modi’s positive remarks, Chinese officials emphasized the importance of cooperation between the two nations. Chinese Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Mao Ning stated that both countries are equipped to collaborate in realizing the shared understandings achieved through Modi and Xi’s dialogues.

The context of these discussions is shaped by a historical backdrop, including a violent confrontation in June 2020 in Eastern Ladakh, which resulted in casualties on both sides. Since then, several rounds of military and diplomatic talks have led to disengagement at multiple friction points along the border, with recent agreements made regarding the last remaining points.

In summary, the 33rd meeting between India and China underscores a commitment to enhancing bilateral relations through dialogue and cooperation. The discussions revolved around significant topics such as resuming cross-border exchanges and addressing ongoing border management issues. Both nations show a willingness to move towards stability in their relations, following steps to disengage from prior tensions along their respective borders. This ongoing dialogue signifies a positive step towards normalizing relationships and strengthening bilateral ties.

Original Source: www.indianewsnetwork.com

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