External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar engaged in a comprehensive discussion with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi in Manila, Philippines. The talks centered on bilateral relations, border stability, and significant regional and global developments. Jaishankar, in a post on X, shared insights from the meeting, which took place on the sidelines of the East Asia Summit and the ASEAN Regional Forum.
During the meeting, Jaishankar expressed satisfaction at reconnecting with Wang Yi, emphasizing the importance of such interactions at international forums like the EAS and ARF. The discussion offered a platform to assess the status of India-China relations and deliberate on crucial regional and global matters. Jaishankar highlighted the gradual normalization of ties between the two nations following the meetings between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping in Kazan in October 2024.
Emphasizing the need for a stable relationship based on mutual respect and shared interests, Jaishankar underscored the potential of such ties in fostering a multi-polar Asia and world. Addressing the sensitive border issue, he stressed the significance of maintaining peace and tranquility in border areas for fostering healthy bilateral relations. Jaishankar also emphasized the importance of managing differences to prevent them from escalating into disputes, a principle agreed upon by the leaders of both countries.
Acknowledging positive steps towards normalization, including the resumption of direct flights and border trade, Jaishankar pointed out areas needing attention such as fair market access, trade balance, and enhancing people-to-people exchanges. He also appreciated China’s support for BRICS activities during India’s chairship and highlighted the necessity for both countries to exchange perspectives on pressing global developments.
