National/ International desk
23 October
Sandeep Dhand Ludhiana
Today, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping held their first formal bilateral talks in five years on the sidelines of the BRICS summit. The leaders discussed important issues related to the India-China relationship, emphasizing the need for a “peaceful and stable” relationship based on “maturity and mutual respect.”
Both leaders confirmed that progress had been made on agreements related to patrolling points in conflict areas along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) in eastern Ladakh. During the meeting, PM Modi stressed that differences and disputes between India and China should be handled properly to prevent them from disrupting peace. He highlighted the importance of mutual trust and respect in guiding bilateral relations.
In a post on X (formerly Twitter), PM Modi stated that the relationship between India and China is vital not only for both countries but also for regional and global peace. Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri added that both leaders have instructed their respective special representatives on the India-China border dispute to continue efforts for resolving issues.
Misri also mentioned that stable relations between the two countries would positively impact global peace and prosperity. He emphasized that once peace is restored in the border areas, steps must be taken to normalize relations.
This meeting comes just days after India and China agreed to restore previous arrangements along the LAC in eastern Ladakh, ending a standoff that began in May 2020. The meeting lasted for about an hour.