On the sidelines of the SCO Defence Ministers’ Meeting in Qingdao, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh met with Chinese Defence Minister Admiral Dong Jun for a focused bilateral discussion.
Singh described the meeting as a ‘constructive and forward-looking exchange of views’ on matters concerning India-China relations.
In a post on social media platform X, Singh emphasised the importance of preserving the positive trajectory in ties between the two nations, stating that both sides must work to maintain this momentum and avoid introducing new complexities.
Held talks with Admiral Don Jun, the Defence Minister of China, on the sidelines of SCO Defence Minitsers’ Meeting in Qingdao. We had a constructive and forward looking exchange of views on issues pertaining to bilateral relations.
Expressed my happiness on restarting of the… pic.twitter.com/dHj1OuHKzE
— Rajnath Singh (@rajnathsingh) June 27, 2025
Resumption of Kailash Mansarovar Yatra welcomed
Singh expressed satisfaction at the resumption of the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra, a key pilgrimage that had remained suspended for nearly six years.
The reopening of this route is seen as a symbolic gesture towards normalising people-to-people exchanges and improving bilateral cooperation.
A statement released by Chinese officials following the meeting noted that India does not seek confrontation with China.
Instead, India aims to enhance dialogue and mutual confidence.
The message signals a shared intent to move forward through communication rather than conflict.
Despite the cordial tone of bilateral talks, India withheld its endorsement of the SCO’s joint declaration.
The decision was driven by the absence of references to terrorism in the final document.
According to Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal, India insisted on including its concerns about terrorism, particularly following recent cross-border attacks.
However, a lack of consensus prevented the statement’s adoption.
Firm stance on counter-terrorism
In his address at the SCO gathering, Singh referenced the deadly Pahalgam terror attack of 22 April, which claimed the lives of 26 civilians, including a Nepali national.
He reaffirmed India’s commitment to safeguarding its sovereignty and highlighted ‘Operation Sindoor’ as a measured response aimed at dismantling terror infrastructure.
Calling for a united stand against terrorism, Singh urged SCO member nations to reject double standards and hold states sponsoring terror accountable.
His remarks reinforced India’s consistent policy of zero tolerance towards terrorism in all its forms.
While differences remain—especially on the issue of terrorism—Singh’s bilateral meeting with Admiral Dong Jun signals a willingness on both sides to keep diplomatic and military channels open.
With India continuing to advocate for stronger anti-terrorism frameworks and deeper regional cooperation, the coming months may be crucial for recalibrating India-China engagement under the SCO framework.
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