In a significant diplomatic exchange, China has expressed its approval of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s comments on India’s autonomous foreign policy, following his bilateral discussion with Chinese President Xi Jinping during the BRICS Summit held in New Delhi. The Chinese Foreign Ministry’s spokesperson, Guo Jiakun, emphasized that Beijing appreciates Modi’s assurance that India’s bilateral relations with China will remain unaffected by the influence of other countries. The central takeaway from the dialogue was the importance of China and India maintaining a partnership that fosters and supports each other’s progress.
President Xi highlighted that despite the differing national contexts of China and India, both nations should prioritize collaboration while addressing their differences with mutual respect and understanding. Modi underlined that upholding peace and stability along their shared border is vital for advancing bilateral relations. He also underscored the necessity of adhering to existing treaties and understandings concerning boundary issues.
Both leaders advocated for a fair and mutually agreeable resolution to the longstanding boundary dispute, stressing that their disagreements should not escalate into conflicts. This meeting follows a period marked by heightened tensions along the Line of Actual Control, where both nations have had a series of confrontations.
In a move toward de-escalation, India and China reached a landmark agreement in October 2024 to withdraw troops from several contentious areas in the Ladakh region, which has contributed to reducing the prolonged military standoff. The discussions between Modi and Xi signify a mutual commitment to overcoming past differences and building a framework for cooperation that can withstand external pressures.