India and China Reach ‘New Starting Point’ in Relations After G20 Meeting
India and China discussed resuming direct flights and the Kailash Mansarovar yatra during a recent meeting between Foreign Ministers S. Jaishankar and Wang Yi at the G20 Summit in Brazil. The meeting marked the first high-level contact since the disengagement in Ladakh, with both ministers emphasizing the need to stabilize relations. They expressed commitment to managing differences, fostering communication, and building mutual trust as they approach a new phase in their diplomatic ties.
In a significant advancement regarding India-China relations, discussions were held between Indian External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar and Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi during their meeting in Rio de Janeiro at the G20 Summit. The ministers deliberated on the prospects of resuming direct flights between the two nations and restarting the Kailash Mansarovar pilgrimage. The meeting represents the first high-level interaction since the recent withdrawal of troops from contested border areas, contributing to sustained peace in the region. The resumption of direct flights, which were halted due to the Covid-19 pandemic in 2020, remains a pressing topic as both nations seek to revive connections post-pandemic. The Kailash Mansarovar pilgrimage, known for its spiritual significance, has also been suspended since 2020. During the discussions, various topics including data sharing on trans-border rivers and media exchanges were addressed, highlighting a potential thaw in diplomatic relations. Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Xi Jinping previously met at the BRICS summit in Russia, emphasizing the importance of managing differences and fostering cooperation within global forums such as BRICS and the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO). Minister Jaishankar reiterated India’s commitment to maintaining an independent foreign policy focused on multipolarity, emphasizing that India does not assess its relationships through the lens of other nations. In his remarks, Foreign Minister Wang Yi echoed the sentiment that India-China relations hold paramount significance on a global scale. Both ministers acknowledged the necessity to stabilize ties, effectively address differences, and foster a constructive dialogue moving forward, marking this phase in their diplomatic engagement as a new beginning.
The India-China relationship, characterized by historical tensions and territorial disputes, has seen fluctuating dynamics, particularly following the clashes in Ladakh in 2020. The disengagement process that has recently taken place offers hope for renewed diplomatic engagement. The discontinuation of direct flights and pilgrimage routes due to the Covid-19 pandemic has exacerbated the situation, motivating both countries to explore avenues for re-establishing communication and cooperation. This recent engagement at the G20 Summit symbolizes a crucial attempt to stabilize bilateral relations amidst longstanding complexities.
In conclusion, the recent meeting between India and China at the G20 Summit signifies a pivotal moment in their diplomatic relations, as both nations aim to resume direct flights and the Kailash Mansarovar pilgrimage. Acknowledging their differences while also recognizing shared interests, the leaders are striving for a more stable and constructive partnership moving forward. This “new starting point” offers potential for improved cooperation and stability in one of the world’s most consequential bilateral relationships.
Original Source: www.ndtv.com
