In a recent development at the BRICS Summit in New Delhi, China has expressed approval of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s statements regarding India’s autonomous approach to foreign policy. This statement came after a bilateral discussion between Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping. A spokesperson for the Chinese Foreign Ministry, Guo Jiakun, emphasized Beijing’s appreciation for Modi’s assertion that India’s relationship with China is not swayed by external influences. The central takeaway from their talks was a mutual agreement that both nations should act as partners and bolster each other’s progress.
President Xi highlighted that despite the distinct national contexts of China and India, the focus should be on partnership and collaboration. He advocated for addressing any differences with mutual respect and understanding, suggesting that both countries should prioritize cooperation. Meanwhile, from the Indian perspective, Modi underscored that maintaining peace and stability along the border is crucial for the advancement of bilateral ties. He also reiterated the importance of adhering to existing agreements and understandings concerning border issues.
Both leaders expressed their commitment to seeking a fair and mutually acceptable solution to the ongoing boundary dispute. They emphasized that while differences exist, they should not escalate into conflicts. This stance indicates a shared desire for dialogue and peaceful resolution, reinforcing the importance of diplomatic efforts in handling sensitive issues along their shared border.
The meeting between Modi and Xi took place against the backdrop of prolonged tensions along the Line of Actual Control, the de facto boundary between the two nations. These tensions have been a significant point of friction, especially in the Ladakh sector. However, significant progress was made in October 2024, when India and China reached an agreement to disengage troops from several contentious areas, marking a step towards easing the military standoff that had persisted for years.