India wants stability with China but seeks ‘respect’ for its interests: EAM S Jaishankar

India wants a stable relationship with China but expects its interests to be “respected” and its “sensitivities recognised,” External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar said during a discussion at Chatham House, a British policy institute. He acknowledged that the relationship has been shaped by decades of ups and downs, but the real challenge is managing the balance as both nations rise.

Reflecting on the last 40 years, Jaishankar noted that peace along the border was seen as essential for better ties. However, the situation changed dramatically in 2020 when Chinese forces clashed with Indian troops in the Galwan Valley, leading to the deaths of around 20 Indian soldiers and multiple Chinese casualties. It was the most serious border confrontation in 45 years.

Disengagement and Diplomatic Efforts

Jaishankar pointed out that, despite the tensions, progress has been made. “In October 2024, we were able to resolve many of the urgent issues, the pending issues, pertaining to what we call the disengagement of troops who had been deployed up front,” he said. This paved the way for high-level meetings, including one between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping in Kazan, Russia, during the BRICS Summit. Jaishankar himself met with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi, while National Security Advisor Ajit Doval and Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri visited China.

Steps Towards Normalisation

While troop disengagement was a major breakthrough, Jaishankar noted that other key issues are still being discussed. “So, the resumption of pilgrimage to Mount Kailash, the direct flights between the two countries, the journalists’ issues—all these are being discussed, but there are some other issues,” he said. He pointed to the stalled mechanism for trans-border river cooperation, which had stopped after 2020. “We are looking at this package… it’s hard. You know, obviously, we would like to see it done sooner rather than later. And then we will see what happens.”

A Complex Relationship Between Giants

Jaishankar described India-China relations as “very unique,” given their shared history and sheer size. “First, we are the only two countries in the world with over a billion people. Both of us have a long history, with ups and downs over time. Today, both countries are on an upward trajectory; here is the challenge, and we are also direct neighbours. The challenge is that as any country rises, its balance with the world and its neighbours changes. When two countries of this size, history, complexity, and this consequence rise in parallel, they interplay with each other,” he said.

Strengthening Ties Beyond China

Jaishankar is in the UK and Ireland from March 4 to 9, aiming to reinforce India’s diplomatic partnerships. His visit focuses on strengthening the India-UK Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, which covers trade, defence, security, health, education, and cultural ties.As discussions with China continue, India remains firm on ensuring its national interests are safeguarded while seeking a more predictable and constructive relationship.