In a notable diplomatic engagement, China has expressed approval of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s comments on India’s autonomous foreign policy, following his meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping during the BRICS Summit held in New Delhi. China’s Foreign Ministry spokesperson, Guo Jiakun, highlighted Beijing’s appreciation for Modi’s assurance that India’s relations with China would remain unaffected by external influences. This interaction emphasized the mutual understanding that China and India should continue to be partners, aiding each other’s growth and development.
President Xi Jinping acknowledged the distinct national contexts of China and India, suggesting that despite these differences, both nations should prioritize cooperation. He underscored the importance of addressing mutual differences through respect and understanding. Meanwhile, the Indian side reiterated that stability along the shared border is crucial for fostering healthier bilateral ties. Modi emphasized adhering to previously established agreements and understandings concerning border issues to maintain peace.
Both leaders agreed on the necessity of pursuing a fair and mutually satisfactory resolution to their longstanding boundary disputes. They stressed that existing differences should not escalate into full-blown conflicts, reflecting a shared commitment to peaceful coexistence and dialogue.
This dialogue between the two leaders occurs in the context of persistent tensions along the Line of Actual Control. An important step towards de-escalation was marked by the agreement reached in October 2024, where India and China consented to disengage their troops from several contentious areas in the Ladakh sector, contributing to the alleviation of a prolonged military standoff.