Wang Yi and Jaishankar Discuss Bilateral Relations in Beijing

Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi met with Indian External Affairs Minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar in Beijing to discuss their countries' relations as major neighbors and emerging economies. Wang highlighted that the core of China-India relations centers on achieving a harmonious coexistence that leads to shared prosperity. He called for both nations to maintain a foundation of friendly mutual respect, work towards peaceful coexistence, and foster collaborative growth through win-win partnerships.

Wang noted the significance of this year, marking the 75th anniversary of diplomatic ties between China and India, pointing out that their relationship is on a path of improvement that should be safeguarded. He stressed that their mutual connection should not be influenced by external parties and that both countries must build trust to prevent misunderstandings and competition from escalating into conflict. Wang expressed China's readiness to cooperate with India, aligning with agreements made by their leaders and enhancing political trust, exchanges, and cooperation in multilateral platforms like the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO).

Jaishankar expressed appreciation for the guidance provided by their recent meeting in Kazan and asserted that relations between the two nations are normalizing across various sectors. He acknowledged China's assistance in facilitating Indian pilgrims' return to sacred sites. Jaishankar framed India and China as development partners rather than rivals and emphasized the importance of focusing on shared interests to strengthen long-term cooperation, cultural exchange, and stability along their borders.

Additionally, Jaishankar affirmed India's commitment to maintaining strategic autonomy in its foreign policy while bolstering collaboration with China in multilateral contexts to promote a multipolar world. He also expressed India's support for China's role as the rotating chair of the SCO, highlighting the upcoming meeting of foreign ministers from SCO member states in Tianjin, which both Wang Yi and Jaishankar will attend.