EAM Jaishankar Meets Chinese Vice President In Push To Normalise Ties

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar began his three-day visit to China on Monday with a key diplomatic engagement in Beijing, meeting Chinese Vice President Han Zheng.

The meeting focused on strengthening India-China relations through open dialogue and cooperation.

In his opening remarks, Jaishankar stated that the continued normalisation of bilateral ties could result in ‘mutually beneficial outcomes’.

He stressed the need for transparent communication and consistent dialogue, particularly between two large and neighbouring economies like India and China.

The visit comes at a significant moment, as the two countries mark the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations.

Jaishankar noted that the relationship has shown steady improvement since Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Xi Jinping met in Kazan last October.

Kailash Mansarovar Yatra resumes

A notable highlight of the discussion was the announcement of the resumption of the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra, suspended for five years due to the COVID-19 pandemic and subsequent border tensions.

The pilgrimage holds great religious and cultural importance in India, and its return has been widely welcomed.

“The resumption of the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra is also widely appreciated in India. Continued normalisation of our ties can produce mutually beneficial outcomes,” Jaishankar remarked.

Referring to the broader international scenario, Jaishankar described the current geopolitical environment as ‘very complex’.

He added, “As neighbouring nations and major economies, an open exchange of views and perspectives between India and China is very important.”

He expressed confidence that the discussions during his China visit would contribute positively to maintaining the momentum of improved ties.

This is EAM Jaishankar’s first visit to China since the Galwan Valley clash in June 2020, which resulted in casualties on both sides and led to a severe downturn in diplomatic relations.

While Jaishankar has met his Chinese counterpart at multilateral forums, this visit represents a renewed effort at high-level bilateral engagement.

Taking to X, Jaishankar posted, “Pleased to meet Vice President Han Zheng soon after my arrival in Beijing today. Conveyed India’s support for China’s SCO Presidency. Noted the improvement in our bilateral ties. And expressed confidence that discussions during my visit will maintain that positive trajectory.”

The visit signals India’s commitment to engage constructively with China, even amidst unresolved border issues.

With the SCO Foreign Ministers’ Meeting underway and diplomatic channels reactivated, both sides appear focused on stability, economic cooperation, and gradual normalisation of relations.

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