Jaishankar Urges Peace with China During Key Beijing Talks

In a significant diplomatic engagement, Indian External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar met with Chinese President Xi Jinping in Beijing ahead of the SCO Foreign Ministers’ Summit. This visit marks Jaishankar’s first trip to China in five years and comes during a period of heightened tensions between the two nations. During the meeting, he delivered greetings from Indian President Murmu and Prime Minister Modi, while also discussing recent developments in bilateral relations.

Jaishankar’s discussions with Xi included a strong emphasis on India’s position regarding terrorism and the necessity for de-escalation along the Line of Actual Control (LAC). The Indian minister articulated India’s concerns about the lack of response from China related to the recentCall for Peace and Cooperation

In meetings with Chinese Vice President Han Zheng and Foreign Minister Wang Yi, Jaishankar reiterated India’s unwavering stance against terrorism. He highlighted that any progress in bilateral relations hinges on maintaining peace at the border. The Indian government has made it clear that addressing these security issues is vital for fostering a more stable and constructive relationship with China.

Jaishankar also raised the matter of resuming the sharing of hydrological data, which plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the region. His discussions reflect a broader effort to stabilize relations between the two nations, which have seen tensions escalate in recent years due to border disputes and security concerns.

The meeting comes as both countries prepare for the upcoming SCO summit, where cooperation on regional security and economic development will be high on the agenda. As nations face various geopolitical challenges, the importance of dialogue and understanding between India and China cannot be overstated. The outcomes of Jaishankar’s visit could potentially influence the trajectory of future interactions between the two countries, setting the stage for a more collaborative approach to their shared challenges.