India-China Relations – Jaishankar Stresses Border Stability as Key to Stronger Bilateral Ties
India-China Relations – India and China took another step in maintaining diplomatic dialogue as External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar met Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi in Manila, underscoring that lasting peace along the border is essential for rebuilding normal bilateral relations. The meeting took place on the sidelines of high-level ASEAN discussions, where regional security and cooperation were among the key topics on the agenda.
Border Peace Remains the Foundation of Bilateral Relations
During his opening remarks, Jaishankar said that peace and stability in the border regions continue to be the basic requirement for restoring and strengthening ties between the two neighbouring countries. He stated that India believes a durable and constructive relationship can only be built on the principles of mutual respect, shared interests, and sensitivity toward each other’s concerns.
He added that a stable India-China relationship would contribute positively not only to Asia but also to a more balanced and multipolar global order. According to Jaishankar, both governments must continue supporting established diplomatic and military mechanisms that help maintain calm along the Line of Actual Control (LAC).
Managing Differences Through Dialogue
The Indian minister observed that it is natural for two large neighbouring nations to have different priorities and interests. However, he stressed that such differences should never be allowed to develop into disputes. Referring to the understanding reached by the leadership of both countries, Jaishankar said diplomacy has the responsibility of ensuring disagreements are handled carefully through continuous engagement and dialogue.
His remarks reflected India’s position that sustained communication remains the most effective way to manage complex bilateral issues while avoiding unnecessary escalation.
Trade and Supply Chain Issues Also Raised
Apart from border-related matters, Jaishankar highlighted India’s concerns regarding economic cooperation. He pointed to the need for fairer market access, reducing the existing trade imbalance, and improving the predictability of supply chains between the two countries.
He also called for greater attention to facilitating official exchanges as well as people-to-people interactions, describing them as important elements in strengthening overall relations. Additionally, he suggested that both sides should coordinate meetings of bilateral mechanisms and dialogue platforms according to mutually agreed priorities.
Diplomatic Efforts Continue After Border Disengagement
India and China have witnessed gradual progress in diplomatic engagement following several rounds of military and diplomatic negotiations over the past two years. These discussions resulted in the withdrawal of troops from multiple friction points along the Line of Actual Control in eastern Ladakh.
A major breakthrough came in October 2024, when both countries finalized a disengagement agreement covering the Depsang and Demchok sectors, the last remaining areas of military friction in eastern Ladakh. The agreement marked an important milestone after years of tensions that had significantly affected bilateral ties.
Leadership-Level Meetings Helped Improve Engagement
Soon after the disengagement arrangement, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping met in Kazan, where they agreed on a series of measures aimed at improving communication and restoring cooperation.
The diplomatic engagement continued in the following months, including another meeting between the two leaders during the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Summit held in Tianjin. During those discussions, Prime Minister Modi reiterated that India remains committed to advancing relations with China on the basis of mutual trust, respect, and sensitivity.
Focus on Gradual Normalisation
The latest meeting between Jaishankar and Wang Yi reflects the continued effort by both governments to maintain diplomatic momentum while addressing longstanding challenges. Although significant progress has been made since the border disengagement agreements, officials on both sides acknowledge that sustained dialogue will remain necessary for building confidence and expanding cooperation in areas of shared interest.
The discussions in Manila indicate that India continues to prioritise border stability, balanced economic engagement, and structured diplomatic communication as the foundation for a more stable and predictable relationship with China.