India’s External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar confirmed ongoing discussions with China to improve relations post-2020 border tensions. The talks include pilgrimages, direct flights, and journalist exchanges. There is an emphasis on resolving shared river issues while maintaining diplomatic engagements between leaders of both nations.

India’s External Affairs Minister, S. Jaishankar, announced that discussions are underway to foster a stable and positive trajectory in relations with China, following the resolution of pressing troop disengagement issues along the border. Initiatives being considered include the resumption of pilgrimages to religious sites in Chinese territory, establishing direct flights, and journalist exchanges, as discussed during his address at Chatham House.

Minister Jaishankar highlighted the aim to address additional concerns, particularly regarding shared rivers, noting that the mechanism for these discussions had been halted due to strained relations since 2020. He expressed optimism about the ongoing engagements, stating, “We are looking at this package and people tasked with that mandate are dealing with each other.”

He reflected on the tensions stemming from China’s aggressive actions at the Line of Actual Control, where severe confrontations resulted in casualties on both sides, marking the first such casualties in 45 years. Jaishankar also mentioned the pivotal meetings between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping, as well as diplomatic visits by India’s National Security Advisor and Foreign Secretary to China during the past year.

In October 2024, a significant agreement was reached, culminating lengthy negotiations aimed at resolving issues arising since the 2020 skirmishes. He concluded with hopes of seeing advancements in bilateral relations in a timely manner, emphasizing that the diplomatic process is ongoing.

In summary, India is actively engaging China to restore and enhance bilateral relations post the 2020 border incidents. The discussions revolve around key initiatives that include travel and media exchanges, while efforts are made to resolve long-standing issues concerning shared rivers. The ministers from both nations demonstrate a commitment to dialogue and continued diplomatic efforts moving forward.

Original Source: www.ndtv.com

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