‘Respecting LAC Essential’: S Jaishankar Meets Chinese Counterpart Wang Yi at SCO Summit

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar met with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi on the sidelines of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit in Astana, focusing on resolving remaining border issues between India and China. Jaishankar emphasized the importance of respecting the Line of Actual Control (LAC) and ensuring peace in border areas. Both ministers agreed to intensify efforts through diplomatic and military channels to achieve these objectives.

The meeting underscores the bilateral tensions that escalated following clashes along the LAC in eastern Ladakh, resulting in casualties on both sides. India has consistently advocated for peace and tranquillity along the border as a prerequisite for normalizing relations with China. The discussions also highlighted the principles guiding their bilateral ties: mutual respect, mutual sensitivity, and mutual interest.

Jaishankar is leading the Indian delegation at the SCO Council of Heads of State Summit, where he discussed India’s strategic partnership with Kazakhstan and its growing engagement in Central Asia. The summit provided an opportunity for diplomatic engagements aimed at enhancing regional cooperation and addressing global challenges.

Earlier, Jaishankar expressed gratitude to Kazakhstan for its hospitality and arrangements for the summit, reflecting India’s commitment to strengthening ties within the SCO framework.

Met with CPC Politburo member and FM Wang Yi in Astana this morning.

Discussed early resolution of remaining issues in border areas. Agreed to redouble efforts through diplomatic and military channels to that end.

Respecting the LAC and ensuring peace and tranquility in the… pic.twitter.com/kR3pSFViGX

— Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) July 4, 2024