Prime Minister Narendra Modi met Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi in New Delhi on Tuesday, following a series of high-level talks by the visiting dignitary with India’s key officials, including National Security Advisor Ajit Doval and External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar. The meeting focused on further strengthening bilateral ties between India and China, with an emphasis on the importance of stability and peace along the Line of Actual Control (LAC).

In a statement following the meeting, PM Modi expressed his satisfaction with the steadily improving ties between India and China, stating, "Since my meeting with President Xi Jinping in Kazan last year, our relations have made steady progress, guided by mutual respect for each other’s interests and sensitivities." The Prime Minister also confirmed his acceptance of an invitation from Chinese President Xi Jinping to attend the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Summit later this month.

Focus on Border Peace and Economic Cooperation

During the meeting, PM Modi reiterated that peace and tranquillity along the India-China border are crucial for maintaining healthy bilateral relations. He stressed that stable, predictable, and constructive ties would significantly contribute to regional and global peace and prosperity. This sentiment was echoed by Wang Yi, who highlighted the importance of strategic communication and cooperation to resolve specific issues, including those related to the border.

Wang Yi also met with NSA Ajit Doval and External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar earlier in the day, further solidifying efforts to de-escalate tensions and enhance mutual trust. Doval noted that the relationship between India and China has shown positive momentum over the past nine months, particularly in light of the peace along the LAC following the 2020 Galwan Valley clash.

The bilateral engagement marks a critical phase of gradual improvement in India-China relations, which is seen as a significant shift from the heightened tensions that followed the Galwan clash. Efforts to normalize ties include disengagement of troops from key friction points and the revival of exchanges like the Kailash Mansarovar pilgrimage. Wang Yi’s visit and the upcoming SCO Summit represent pivotal moments in the continued stabilization of India-China relations and the broader geopolitical landscape.