by Our Correspondent in New Delhi
External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar held a high-level meeting with visiting Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi on Monday, emphasizing the importance of countering terrorism and strengthening bilateral ties between the two nations.
In his opening remarks, Jaishankar highlighted the need to maintain global economic stability alongside tackling terrorism in all its forms and manifestations. He stressed that India seeks a “fair, balanced and multi-polar world order,” noting that reformed multilateralism is essential in the current international environment.
The discussions covered a wide range of issues, including economic and trade cooperation, river data sharing, border trade, connectivity, pilgrimages, and people-to-people contacts. Jaishankar underscored that India-China relations must be guided by three principles: mutual respect, mutual sensitivity, and mutual interest.
“The visit of the Chinese Foreign Minister provides the two countries an opportunity to review bilateral ties and exchange views on global developments,” Jaishankar said. “Having seen a difficult period in our relationship, our two nations now seek to move ahead. Differences must not become disputes, nor competition conflict.”
The talks come against the backdrop of India’s recent military response to cross-border terrorism from Pakistan, a key ally of China. India conducted Operation Sindoor in May following the Pahalgam terror attack, targeting terror infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu & Kashmir, and subsequently repelled Pakistani aggression.
Jaishankar expressed confidence that the dialogue with Wang Yi will contribute to a “stable, cooperative and forward-looking relationship” that addresses concerns and serves the interests of both countries.
Wang Yi’s visit coincides with the 24th round of Talks between the Special Representatives of India and China and is the first high-level Chinese ministerial visit since Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Xi Jinping met in Kazan, Russia, in October 2024. Wang Yi is scheduled to discuss border issues with India’s National Security Adviser Ajit Doval tomorrow, a step Jaishankar described as “very important for maintaining peace and tranquility in border areas and advancing the de-escalation process.”
The visit also precedes the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) Summit in Tianjin, China, where India and China have worked closely during China’s presidency. Jaishankar wished Wang Yi a successful summit with strong outcomes and decisions.
