Chinese President Xi Jinping on Sunday presented a unique vision for a more long term cooperation with India, while PM Narendra Modi reaffirmed New Delhi’s commitment to strengthening ties with Beijing and having a relationship which is grounded in mutual trust, respect, and sensitivity.
The two leaders engaged in comprehensive talks aimed at calibrating Indo-China relations, which have been gradually improving over the past two years following the tense 2020 Galwan Valley clash.
Chinese President Xi Jinping invoked the imagery of a “dragon-elephant tango” to symbolise the ideal relationship between India and China, which holds significance for harmony and cooperation between the two Asian giants. He stressed the importance of the two countries learning to be better neighbours as they celebrated 75 years of diplomatic relations.
In his opening remarks, he welcomed Modi to China for the SCO summit and also referred to their successful meeting in Kazan.
Here are the key highlights at a glance from the diplomatic exchange:
1. Strategic Autonomy:
PM Modi emphasized that India and China should pursue “strategic autonomy” and avoid viewing their relationship through the lens of a third country. Furthermore, both the leaders acknowledged the importance of broadening common ground on key bilateral, regional, and global matters. Challenges such a terrorism and pursuit of a more fair trade in multilateral forums was the focus as well.
2. Border Management:
On the issue of border management, Modi noted that there is a shared understanding between the Special Representatives of India and China. The respective Special Representatives of the countries are assigned with addressing all types of boundary-related matters.
He stated, “The atmosphere at the border is peaceful. An agreement has been reached between our Special Representatives regarding border management.”
3. Flights and Pilgrimage:
Modi announced that the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra has resumed. This marks a significant step in cultural and people-to-people exchanges between India and China. He also confirmed that direct flights between the two nations will shortly resume, henceforth strengthening connectivity among the two.
Modi emphasized, “The interests of 2.8 billion people in both countries are intertwined through our cooperation. Reviving these links not only benefits our nations but also contributes to the greater welfare of humanity. We remain committed to advancing our relationship based on mutual trust, respect, and sensitivity.”
4. The Kazan Meeting:
The turning point in India-China relations came during their meeting in Kazan, Russia in 2024. Fruitful discussions took place between the two leaders which set a positive tone for their bilateral ties. Modi also added that since the border disengagement, the resulting atmosphere has brought peace and stability which laid groundwork for further cooperation.
