China and Bhutan's delegations commence the 25th round of boundary talks in Beijing
- In Reports
- 05:13 PM, Oct 25, 2023
- Myind Staff
The 25th round of boundary talks between China and Bhutan occurred in Beijing. During this diplomatic meeting, representatives from both nations continued their negotiations with the aim of resolving boundary disputes. They also acknowledged the commendable efforts of an expert group working in this regard, as reported by the official statement released by the Chinese foreign ministry.
Both parties expressed their intent to capitalize on the "positive momentum" generated by the ongoing boundary negotiations, as mentioned in the release.
The talks were conducted with the Chinese delegation led by Vice Minister of Foreign Affairs of China, Sun Weidong, and the Bhutanese delegation led by the country’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and External Trade, Tandi Dorji.
“The two sides held in-depth discussions on the boundary negotiations and noted the progress made through a series of Expert Group Meetings since the 24th Round of Boundary Talks in 2016,” read a joint statement issued after the talks.
China and Bhutan have signed an agreement outlining the roles and responsibilities of the Joint Technical Team responsible for defining and marking the China-Bhutan boundary.
“During the talks, the two leaders of the delegations signed the Cooperation Agreement between the Government of the People’s Republic of China and the Government of the Kingdom of Bhutan on the Responsibilities and Functions of the Joint Technical Team (JTT) on the Delimitation and Demarcation of the China-Bhutan Boundary,” the statement read further.
During the 13th Expert Group Meeting, the JTT was established to aid in executing the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) on the Three-Step Roadmap, as per the announcement. The two leaders also concurred to collaborate further to advance the implementation of all the phases of the Three-Step Roadmap concurrently.
“The discussions were held in a warm and friendly atmosphere in keeping with the ties of friendship and cooperation between China and Bhutan,” the joint statement read further.
Subsequently, both parties engaged in a discussion aimed at strengthening their bilateral ties and addressing mutual concerns. The exchange of views transpired as a significant aspect of their diplomatic interaction.
Moreover, during their visit to China for boundary talks, the Bhutanese delegation undertook explorations of sites that held historical and cultural significance. This facet of their visit highlights the delegation's intention to foster a deeper understanding of the cultural and historical dimensions that shape the region
The visit not only served the purpose of discussing boundary-related matters but also symbolized the willingness of both parties to engage in cultural exchange and exploration. It reflects a broader diplomatic approach where diplomatic engagements are complemented by cultural interactions, thereby contributing to a more comprehensive and well-rounded bilateral relationship.
Image source: ANI
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