Qingdao, China: In a significant diplomatic move aimed at maintaining momentum in India-China relations, Indian Defence Minister Rajnath Singh met his Chinese counterpart Admiral Dong Jun on the sidelines of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Defence Ministers’ Meeting held in Qingdao, China. The leaders discussed key issues, including the restoration of the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra and resolving the ongoing military standoff in eastern Ladakh.
Reaffirming Stability and Dialogue
During the meeting, both sides engaged in what was described as “constructive and forward-looking” dialogue, with Rajnath Singh emphasizing that India is committed to peace and stability along the Line of Actual Control (LAC). He urged China to avoid introducing any new complexities in the already sensitive bilateral relationship.
Singh underlined the importance of mutual trust, stating, “India does not seek conflict, but believes in resolving differences through dialogue and fostering confidence for sustainable bilateral development.”
Kailash Mansarovar Yatra Resumption
A significant highlight of the conversation was the resumption of the Kailash Mansarovar pilgrimage, a spiritual journey that holds deep religious significance for Hindus, Jains, and Buddhists. Suspended since 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic and subsequent border tensions, the revival of the yatra marks a positive turn in Indo-China cultural exchanges.
Singh expressed satisfaction over the reopening and reiterated the yatra’s importance for millions of Indian devotees.
LAC Standoff and Diplomatic Progress
The talks also addressed the eastern Ladakh military standoff that began in May 2020 and escalated with a deadly clash in Galwan Valley in June the same year. Following prolonged negotiations, both countries have completed disengagement at most flashpoints, including Depsang and Demchok, as part of a mutual agreement reached in October 2024.
Rajnath Singh reiterated that maintaining peace along the border is crucial to broader bilateral stability, and that diplomatic and military channels should remain open to prevent any future escalation.
Looking Ahead
China’s official statement echoed similar sentiments, expressing a willingness to deepen strategic communication and maintain regional peace under the SCO framework.
With over 70 countries represented at the SCO Summit, Singh’s engagement with China highlights India’s efforts to navigate complex regional dynamics while emphasizing sovereignty, dialogue, and peace.
The high-level meeting signals cautious optimism for future India-China relations, especially as both nations eye stability amid a changing global geopolitical landscape.
