Prime Minister Modi Hosts Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi To Strengthen India-China Relations

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi met to discuss easing tensions and enhancing bilateral ties, focusing on border stability and counter-terrorism efforts. Their discussions are significant in the context of the upcoming SCO Summit in Tianjin.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi recently hosted Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi at his New Delhi residence, 7 Lok Kalyan Marg. The meeting aimed to ease India-China tensions and advance military and diplomatic discussions following the 2020 border standoff in eastern Ladakh. Mr Wang Yi delivered an invitation from Chinese President Xi Jinping for the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Summit in Tianjin.

During their conversation, Prime Minister Modi stressed the importance of maintaining peace along the border. He reiterated India's commitment to a fair and mutually acceptable resolution of boundary issues. "Glad to meet Foreign Minister Wang Yi. Since my meeting with President Xi in Kazan last year, India-China relations have made steady progress guided by respect for each other's interests and sensitivities. I look forward to our next meeting in Tianjin on the sidelines of the SCO," he tweeted.

Focus on Border Stability

The meeting coincided with hefty tariffs imposed by Trump on India for purchasing Russian oil. Mr Wang Yi's visit is part of a three-day trip leading up to the SCO Summit. Earlier, he met National Security Advisor Ajit Doval during the 24th round of Special Representatives' discussions on boundary issues.

Ajit Doval highlighted positive developments, stating, "There has been an upward trend. Borders have been quiet. There has been peace and tranquillity. Our bilateral engagements have been more substantial." He credited leaders' efforts in Kazan last October for setting a new trend that has benefited both nations.

Strengthening Bilateral Ties

Mr Wang Yi acknowledged past setbacks between India and China were not beneficial. He noted, "PM Modi and President Xi Jinping met in Kazan. We are happy to share that stability has now been restored at the borders." He welcomed Prime Minister Modi's upcoming visit to China for the SCO Summit.

Wang Yi emphasised that a healthy relationship between India and China serves both countries' long-term interests. He expressed optimism about future cooperation and stability at the borders.

Tackling Terrorism Together

A day prior, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar met Mr Wang Yi in New Delhi. Mr Jaishankar stated, "The fight against terrorism in all its forms and manifestations is another major priority." He anticipated that their discussions would foster a stable, cooperative relationship between India and China.

Jaishankar also highlighted the necessity of maintaining peace along border areas as a foundation for positive momentum in bilateral ties. He stressed that advancing de-escalation processes is essential for future cooperation.

The meetings reflect ongoing efforts to strengthen diplomatic relations between India and China while addressing mutual concerns such as border stability and counter-terrorism initiatives.