EAM Jaishankar met Wang-Yi expecting resolution on evident issues in border areas

External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar met Chinese counterpart Wang Yi in Astana on Thursday to discuss the “early resolution of remaining issues in border areas.”

Jaishankar emphasized respecting the Line of Actual Control (LAC) and maintaining peace and tranquility. He highlighted the three guiding principles for bilateral ties: mutual respect, sensitivity, and interest. Since May 2020, India and China have faced a military standoff sparked by Chinese attempts to alter the LAC status quo. Despite nearly four years of diplomatic and military discussions, the standoff continues. Jaishankar described the current bilateral relations as “abnormal,” while Defense Minister Rajnath Singh condemned China’s unilateral actions as violations of bilateral ties’ foundations.

Jaishankar’s book, Why Bharat Matters, underscores the shift in India’s strategy towards China following the border clashes. He argues that the peace and tranquility essential for stable relations were shattered, necessitating a more holistic approach to China. He calls for accepting a multipolar Asia as a necessary element of stability. In the recent meeting, both sides agreed to intensify efforts through diplomatic and military channels to resolve the border issues. Jaishankar reiterated that normalizing relations requires peace and tranquility in the border areas. Despite the ongoing tension, the latest round of diplomatic negotiations aims to establish new agreements and stabilize the relationship between the two countries.