Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi urged India and China should establish a “correct strategic understanding” and regard one another as partners instead of rivals. He conveyed this message to External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar during their meeting in New Delhi on August 18.
A statement from the Chinese foreign ministry said Beijing was ready to uphold the principle of cordiality and mutual benefit in its ties with New Delhi.
EAM Stresses Mutual Respect
EAM Jaishankar responded by saying the two countries must adopt a “candid and constructive” approach to engagement, particularly after a difficult phase in bilateral relations. He emphasised that cooperation should be built on mutual respect, mutual sensitivity and mutual interests.
The EAM said, “Differences must not become disputes, nor competition conflict,” adding that the upcoming visit of the Chinese leader provides an opportunity to review ties and exchange views on the global situation.
Relations between the two nations soured after a military standoff along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) in eastern Ladakh in 2020. While agreements have since eased tensions at several friction points, both sides remain cautious.
Ahead of the 2024 BRICS Summit, New Delhi and Beijing reached an agreement on patrolling arrangements in eastern Ladakh, marking progress in de-escalation efforts.
Wang Yi’s visit precedes Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s expected trip to Tianjin later this month to attend the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit, scheduled from August 31 to early September. (Inputs from ANI)
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