External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar met with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi on the periphery of the G20 Foreign Ministers’ Meeting to discuss bilateral relations and global challenges.

Jaishankar noted that forums like the G20 have created opportunities for dialogue, even during difficult phases in India-China relations. He also recognised the joint efforts of both countries in strengthening the G20’s role in a polarised global environment, emphasising the need for international cooperation.

“Such gatherings have provided an opportunity for our interaction even when our ties were going through a difficult phase,” Jaishankar expressed. “We should also recognise that in a polarised global situation, our two countries have worked hard to preserve and protect the G20 as an institution.”

Jaishankar highlighted recent diplomatic engagements, noting that India’s National Security Advisor and Foreign Secretary had visited China since the leaders last met at the G20 Summit in Rio de Janeiro in November 2024.

“Our discussions have included the management of peace and tranquillity in the border areas as well as other dimensions of our ties. I am glad today to have a further exchange of views,” Jaishankar expressed.

The External Affairs Minister highlighted the broader India-China engagement through forums such as the G20, Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO), and BRICS. He noted that both countries have shared interests in regional and global matters, stressing the importance of exchanging perspectives for mutual benefit.

“India and China are members of the G20, SCO, and BRICS. There are also regional and global issues of mutual interest, where an exchange of perspectives will be to our mutual benefit,” Jaishankar further said.

During their meeting, Jaishankar and Wang Yi discussed maintaining peace and stability in border areas, the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra, the resumption of direct flight connectivity and measures to facilitate travel.

In a significant move to improve relations, India and China agreed in January to resume the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra and restart direct flights, which had been suspended in 2020 due to the standoff at the Line of Actual Control (LAC).

Jaishankar enthusiastically wrapped up his remarks, expressing confidence that the discussions would help strengthen bilateral relations and tackle shared global challenges.

Image source: The Tribune