Border peace, trade, and bilateral cooperation were discussed in the meeting between Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi and Indian Foreign Minister S. Jaishankar.

Despite the long-standing border dispute and political tensions between India and China, both countries are making new efforts to advance their relations. Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi said during his visit to New Delhi that the two countries should establish a correct strategic partnership and consider each other as partners. This statement made it clear that both Beijing and New Delhi are keen to stabilize bilateral relations and find new ways of cooperation. Wang Yi told Dr. Jaishankar about the US tariff that the world is moving towards rapid change. Referring to America, he said that it is facing unilateral intimidation. Apart from this, the world is facing free trade business and international challenges.

History shows that India and China have seen difficult times. The Galwan Valley clash of June 2020 brought relations to the lowest point in decades, but at present, the leadership of both countries is focused on reducing tensions and finding opportunities for cooperation at the regional and global level.

Importance of border peace and dialogue

Border peace was a major issue in the meeting between Wang Yi and Indian Foreign Minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar. Jaishankar clearly stated that the basis of any positive momentum in India-China relations is the ability to maintain peace and harmony in the border areas. Wang Yi also acknowledged that dialogue and exchanges are gradually being restored at all levels. This is an indication that both countries now want to look towards the future, instead of being stuck only on border disputes. Apart from this, the border talks between Ajit Doval and Wang Yi have raised hopes that progress can be made in the long-stalled talks.

Opportunities for trade and bilateral cooperation

During the meeting, the two leaders also discussed trade and economic relations. China is one of India's largest trading partners, but the trade balance has long been tilted in Beijing's favour. Jaishankar also discussed issues such as river data sharing, border trade, connectivity, and cultural exchange. Such steps will not only improve trade relations but will also strengthen mutual trust. Wang Yi's statement that India and China can set an example for developing countries is also important. This simply means that both countries can leave behind their differences and play a leadership role for the Global South.

SCO summit and future direction

Wang Yi's visit comes just days before Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to China. Modi will visit Beijing for the first time in seven years to attend the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit. Both China and India are important members of the SCO and this platform gives both countries an opportunity to share their views on regional security, counter-terrorism and economic cooperation. In this context, Wang Yi's visit and his talks with Jaishankar are not limited to bilateral relations but are also related to the collective security and stability of Asia.