NEW DELHI, Feb 10: India and China on Tuesday engaged in the India-China Strategic Dialogue to address trade concerns and strengthen peace and stability along their shared border. The talks were led by India’s Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri and China’s Executive Vice Foreign Minister Ma Zhaoxu, who is visiting India to participate in the BRICS Sherpa meeting.
The discussions focused on stabilising and rebuilding bilateral ties, which had been under strain following the four-year military standoff in eastern Ladakh. Both sides emphasised the importance of maintaining peace and tranquillity along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) as a prerequisite for broader progress in bilateral relations.
They also reiterated their commitment to implement guidance provided by their leaders and to address trade and other sensitive issues from a political and strategic perspective. While details on these issues were limited, India has raised concerns over China’s export control measures on rare earth minerals.
The dialogue included efforts to enhance people-to-people exchanges, visa facilitation, and tourism, with particular reference to the successful resumption of the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra. Both sides agreed on the need for an early conclusion of an updated air services agreement and pledged to continue practical steps to advance cooperation.
Additionally, Misri and Ma discussed regional and international developments. The meeting reflects a continued push to normalise relations following the October 2024 end of the military face-off and underscores mutual interest in strengthening economic, diplomatic, and strategic engagement while ensuring border stability. (PTI)
