External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar outlines India’s vision for a balanced relationship with China, emphasizing the need for mutual respect, stability, and recognition of sensitivities.
Jaishankar Calls for a Stable and Respectful India-China Relationship
London [UK], March 6 – External Affairs Minister (EAM) S. Jaishankar has reaffirmed India’s commitment to a stable relationship with China, stating that such a partnership must be built on mutual respect, sensitivity, and equilibrium.
Speaking at Chatham House in London, Jaishankar stressed that while both nations have historically shared an evolving relationship, peace and tranquility along the border remain critical for any progress in bilateral ties.
“The key issue is how to create a stable equilibrium and transition into the next phase of equilibriums. We want a stable relationship where our interests are respected, our sensitivities are recognized, and where it works for both of us. That is really the main challenge in our relationship,” Jaishankar said.
Border Stability: A Precondition for Stronger Ties
Jaishankar pointed out that for over four decades, peace along the India-China border has been the foundation of bilateral growth. However, tensions escalated in 2020 along the Line of Actual Control (LAC), disrupting diplomatic progress.
“If the border is unstable, not peaceful, or not tranquil, it will inevitably affect the growth and direction of our relationship,” he noted.
Following disengagement talks in October 2024, efforts were made to restore diplomatic exchanges, including meetings between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Xi Jinping in Kazan, as well as dialogues between Jaishankar and Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi.
Steps Toward Normalization: Kailash Pilgrimage, Direct Flights & More
India and China are currently exploring ways to rebuild trust and reestablish disrupted mechanisms, including:
- Resumption of pilgrimages to Mount Kailash
- Restoration of direct flights between India and China
- Reinstatement of journalist exchanges
- Revival of the Trans-border Rivers Agreement
Jaishankar acknowledged that while progress has been made, the process remains complex and requires time.
“We are looking at this package… It’s hard. Obviously, we would like to see it done sooner rather than later. And then we will see what happens,” he said.
“A Unique Relationship”: Managing the Rise of Two Global Powers
Addressing India’s long-term vision for its relationship with China, Jaishankar described it as “unique and complex”, shaped by their shared history, size, and economic ambitions.
“We are the only two countries in the world with over a billion people. Both of us have a long history, with ups and downs over time. Today, both countries are on an upward trajectory, and we are also direct neighbors. The challenge is that as any country rises, its balance with the world and its neighbors changes,” he explained.
As both nations continue to grow, managing their interplay will be a defining challenge for the future.
Jaishankar’s UK Visit: Strengthening Strategic Ties
Jaishankar is on an official visit to the United Kingdom and Ireland from March 4 to 9, aiming to strengthen India’s diplomatic and economic partnerships with both nations.
India and the UK share a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, spanning defense, trade, security, health, education, and people-to-people ties.
During his visit, Jaishankar also addressed key global issues, including:
- Kashmir and regional stability
- The internationalization of the Indian Rupee
- The role of BRICS in reshaping global finance
- The dominance of the US dollar in international trade
With India emerging as a key player in global geopolitics, Jaishankar’s diplomatic engagements underscore New Delhi’s vision for a stable, multipolar world order.
Will India and China find a sustainable path forward, or will border tensions continue to define their relationship? The coming months will be crucial in shaping the next phase of their engagement.
Tags: India-China Relations, S Jaishankar, China-India Border Dispute, Diplomacy, India Foreign Policy, Modi-Xi Meeting, Chatham House, BRICS, UK-India Relations, Global Geopolitics, Line of Actual Control