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The recent visit of Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi to New Delhi marked the first ministerial-level engagement from China since India and China agreed in October 2024 to complete disengagement at the border. Wang, meeting Prime Minister Narendra Modi, acknowledged that bilateral relations had experienced “ups and downs” and emphasised learning from past experiences. He urged that India and China view each other as partners rather than adversaries, signalling cautious attempts at resetting ties.

Historical Context

Bilateral optimism peaked in October 2019, during the second informal summit between PM Modi and President Xi Jinping at Mahabalipuram. However, eight months later, the Galwan Valley clash in eastern Ladakh resulted in 20 Indian and at least four Chinese casualties, triggering a rupture in relations. Both sides amassed 50,000–60,000 troops along the Line of Actual Control (LAC), leading to a prolonged standoff with frequent confrontations and infrastructure build-ups. Partial disengagement occurred in subsequent years, but the situation remained tense until mid-2024.

The 2024 disengagement agreement at remaining flashpoints in Depsang and Demchok, followed by a Modi–Xi meeting in Kazan, paved the way for a diplomatic thaw. Since then, exchanges at the levels of External Affairs, Defence, and National Security have contributed to restoring dialogue and confidence.

Twin-Track Strategy

India and China have revived the dual-track approach, pursuing border management and broader bilateral cooperation simultaneously. Key mechanisms under the Working Mechanism for Consultation and Coordination (WMCC) include:

• An Expert Group to explore early harvest options in boundary delimitation
• A Working Group for effective border management to maintain peace and tranquillity
• Expansion of General-Level Mechanisms to include Eastern and Middle sectors

This strategy ensures that border issues do not obstruct the development of bilateral ties, while also recognising the need for a political perspective in settling boundary disputes.

Bilateral Cooperation

In the economic and connectivity domain, both sides agreed to:

• Resume direct flights and facilitate visas for tourists, businesses, and media
• Reopen border trade at Lipulekh Pass, Shipki La Pass, and Nathu La Pass
• Promote trade and investment flows through concrete measures

In the water resources sector, China committed to sharing hydrological information on trans-border rivers during emergencies on humanitarian grounds. The Kailash Mansarovar Yatra has resumed, reflecting thawing people-to-people exchanges.

Trust Deficit and Security Concerns

Despite progress, several issues continue to hinder trust:

• Repeated Chinese incursions (Depsang 2013, Chumar 2014, Doklam 2017, and ongoing standoffs)
• Continued deployment of over 50,000 troops in eastern Ladakh
• China–Pakistan military cooperation, including weapon and intelligence support
• Potential risks from China’s mega dam on the YarlungTsangpo (Brahmaputra) affecting downstream states
• Concerns regarding cross-border terrorism and China’s export restrictions on rare earths, fertilisers, and industrial equipment

Strategic Context

The recent thaw also comes amid shifting global dynamics, including strained India–US ties, US tariffs on Indian imports, and broader geopolitical competition. Both India and China aim to maintain stability, enhance economic cooperation, and pursue a multipolar Asia. However, sustainable rapprochement depends on Beijing addressing Indian concerns on security, water, and economic vulnerabilities, alongside constructive engagement on the border.