Peace Along Border is Like “Insurance Policy” for Ties’: India to China
Prime Minister Narendra Modi emphasized to Chinese President Xi Jinping that maintaining peace and tranquility along the India-China border is akin to an insurance policy for the bilateral relationship, according to Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri.
The discussions took place on the sidelines of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) summit, focusing on rebuilding ties strained by the over four-year border standoff in eastern Ladakh, which ended in October last year.
Modi highlighted the challenge of cross-border terrorism and requested mutual cooperation to address the issue, noting that both India and China have been affected. Misri stated that China has shown understanding and cooperation in this regard.
The two leaders also discussed principles for bilateral ties that are expected to guide future relations. Both Modi and Xi agreed that differences should not escalate into disputes and that a stable, amicable relationship would benefit the 2.8 billion people of the two countries.
President Xi suggested strengthening strategic communication, deepening mutual trust, expanding exchanges for mutual benefit, accommodating each other’s concerns, and enhancing multilateral cooperation. Modi responded positively to all these proposals.
Modi reiterated that peace along the border is crucial for the smooth development of India-China ties, reflecting both nations’ commitment to constructive engagement and long-term stability. – News Agency