NEW DELHI: India and China have agreed to work towards resuming the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra, marking a significant step forward in bilateral relations following years of border tensions. The decision was made during a Special Representative (SR) meeting between the two nations, held in Beijing on December 18, 2024.
The meeting followed the recent interaction between Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping at the BRICS Summit, where both leaders emphasized the importance of improving diplomatic ties. In addition to the Yatra, the two countries have also agreed to enhance cross-border river cooperation and resume trade through the Nathula Pass.
Agreements Reached During the Meeting
The Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated that the 23rd SR meeting marked the first in five years and was held in a constructive and positive spirit. Discussions centered on maintaining peace along the border, strengthening diplomatic and military mechanisms, and creating a framework for the resolution of boundary disputes.
According to the statement, Chinese Special Representative Wang Yi, a member of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee and Director of the Central Foreign Affairs Office, and Indian Special Representative Ajit Doval, the National Security Advisor, reached six key consensuses during their talks.
The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) of India emphasized the importance of maintaining a political perspective on the bilateral relationship while addressing the boundary question. Both sides agreed on the need to inject vitality into the resolution process and ensure peace in the border areas to enable normal development of bilateral ties.
Key Highlights
- Both nations reiterated the importance of maintaining peace and tranquility along the border to advance overall bilateral relations.
- Drawing on the lessons from the 2020 border tensions, they discussed measures for effective border management and peaceful coexistence.
- Diplomatic and military mechanisms will be better coordinated to address ongoing issues and ensure ground stability.
Plans for Future Engagement
NSA Ajit Doval invited Wang Yi to visit India for the next round of SR meetings, signaling a commitment to ongoing dialogue and cooperation.
This development, coupled with efforts to resume the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra, is seen as a positive step in rebuilding trust and fostering stronger ties between the two nations.
