Beijing, July 14 — In a significant diplomatic outreach, Indian External Affairs Minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar urged China to take concrete steps toward de-escalating border tensions and removing restrictive trade measures during his visit to Beijing on Monday. This marks Jaishankar’s first trip to China since the deadly 2020 border clash that led to a prolonged military standoff between the two nations.
Jaishankar met with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi and Vice President Han Zheng on the sidelines of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Foreign Ministers’ meeting. He emphasized that while recent progress in resolving friction along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) has helped normalize relations, further troop withdrawals and trust-building measures are essential for lasting peace.
“We have made good progress in the past nine months toward normalizing our bilateral relations. It is now incumbent upon us to address remaining border-related issues, including de-escalation,” Jaishankar stated during the talks.
India and China share a 3,800-kilometer border that remains poorly demarcated and historically contentious. The 2020 Galwan Valley clash, which resulted in casualties on both sides, severely strained diplomatic ties. Although both countries began easing tensions last October, Jaishankar reiterated that full normalization is contingent on restoring peace and tranquility along the border.
Trade relations also featured prominently in the discussions. Jaishankar raised concerns over China’s recent export restrictions on critical resources such as rare earth minerals and high-tech manufacturing equipment. India, despite having substantial rare earth reserves, remains dependent on imports due to limited domestic production.
“Restrictive trade measures and roadblocks must be avoided to foster mutually beneficial cooperation,” Jaishankar said, calling for the removal of barriers that could hinder India’s industrial growth.
Chinese officials responded by expressing willingness to strengthen communication and coordination to safeguard global supply chains. Vice President Han Zheng echoed the need for mutual respect and practical cooperation, noting that both countries should work toward shared goals while respecting each other’s concerns.
The visit also coincided with the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations between India and China. Both sides agreed to enhance people-to-people exchanges, including resuming the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra and increasing direct flight connectivity.
As the SCO meeting continues, Jaishankar is expected to engage further on regional security issues, including counterterrorism efforts. His remarks underscore India’s broader strategic aim: to stabilize ties with China while protecting national interests in trade and territorial integrity.
