Following the BRICS summit held in the city of Kazan, Russia, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping engaged in bilateral talks. This was their first meeting since the Galwan clash in 2020. During the hour-long discussion, the leaders delved into various issues, with a primary focus on border security. After the meeting, PM Modi took to X to express that the relationship between India and China is not only significant for both countries but also crucial for global peace and stability. Mutual respect, trust, and sensitivity will guide the way forward in these relations.
But the pressing question is how India can trust China, which has repeatedly breached trust from 1962 to Doklam and Galwan. Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri addressed this query during a press conference organized by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs for the briefing of the bilateral talks. When asked whether the meeting between Prime Minister Modi and Xi Jinping indicates that relations between India and China have normalized and whether China can now be trusted, Misri responded, "Over the last two days, the steps we've taken are evident for us. The work on these issues has been ongoing for quite some time. It marks the start of our journey towards normalizing relations. The recent agreement has opened the path for peace at the border. We both (India and China) need to walk this path, and as for trusting China, the future discussions between the two sides will hopefully increase trust between the nations."
Will Bilateral Talks Resolve LAC Issues?
Earlier, when asked if the bilateral talks would resolve LAC issues, the Foreign Secretary expressed hope for significant improvements in the LAC situation. Regarding trust-building measures, Misri emphasized that both sides have several ongoing means of confidence-building as they reconnect in various formats. He anticipated further discussions on this topic between the two countries. The military leadership is better positioned to accurately address military situations at the border due to the operational nature of these issues.
PM Modi Welcomes Consensus on Ladakh Issue
During his bilateral meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping, Prime Minister Narendra Modi asserted that India-China relations are significant not only for both nations but also for global peace, stability, and advancement. PM Modi stated, "Our formal meeting after five years holds great importance. We believe that India-China relations are vital not only for our citizens but also for global peace, stability, and progress. We welcome the consensus reached on border issues over the past four years. Maintaining peace and stability at the border should remain our priority. Mutual trust, respect, and sensitivity should continue to be the foundation of our relationship."
Xi Jinping Calls for Positive India-China Relations
Chinese President Xi Jinping met with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi during the BRICS summit in Kazan, Russia. During their discussion, Xi underscored the significance of collaboration between China and India, highlighting their shared status as ancient civilizations and developing countries.
According to a press statement issued by the Chinese side, Xi emphasized that fostering positive China-India relations aligns with the core interests of both countries and their peoples. He urged increased communication and cooperation between the two countries, stressing the importance of effectively managing any contradictions or differences. Jinping called upon both nations to set an example for other developing countries, promote a multipolar world, and work together towards greater democratization in international relations.
