Jaishankar Meets Xi Jinping in Beijing, Stresses Long-Term Stability in India-China Relations

During his visit to China for the SCO Foreign Ministers’ meet, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar held a brief but significant interaction with Chinese President Xi Jinping in Beijing. Amid lingering border tensions and complex bilateral ties, Jaishankar called for a far-sighted and balanced approach to improve India-China relations.

Key Focus of the Visit
Jaishankar was in Beijing to attend the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Council of Foreign Ministers meeting. While the primary purpose was multilateral, the visit also gave room for important diplomatic exchanges between Indian and Chinese leadership.

The Jaishankar-Xi Interaction
The Indian minister’s interaction with President Xi Jinping was not a scheduled bilateral, but it carried symbolic weight. Jaishankar emphasised the need for a “far-seeing” and “strategic” view in managing the India-China relationship, especially in a region marked by growing uncertainty and competition.

Border Tensions Still a Concern
Though the meeting appeared cordial, unresolved issues from the Line of Actual Control (LAC) standoff continue to cast a shadow. India has consistently maintained that peace along the border is essential for any forward movement in other areas of the relationship. While China has spoken of moving ahead “beyond differences,” India remains cautious.

What This Means for India
For a country like India, especially in Tier 2 cities where border developments directly impact sentiments, trade, and perception, this kind of engagement is watched closely. Any improvement in ties could open doors for better regional cooperation, but without real resolution on the ground, expectations remain limited.

The Bigger Picture
This interaction, though brief, signals both countries are keeping channels open. In an increasingly divided global landscape, major Asian powers like India and China cannot afford to let dialogue break down entirely. Yet, the road to mutual trust is long and complicated.

Conclusion
Jaishankar’s message in Beijing was clear—India wants stable and mature relations with China, but not at the cost of its core concerns. Whether China responds with equal sincerity remains to be seen. For now, the door remains open, but cautiously.