Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi is on a two-day visit to India, with the primary goal of discussing measures to establish sustained peace and stability along the India-China border. This visit is taking place before Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to China at the end of August, suggesting a strategic move to rebuild ties between the two nations.
Relations between the two nations have been tense since the 2020 Galwan Valley clash. Although both sides have moved troops away from the immediate conflict areas, the situation remains sensitive. A considerable number of soldiers, between 50,000 and 60,000, are still stationed along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) in eastern Ladakh.
Further complicating matters, the visit occurs against the backdrop of escalating tensions in India-US relations. Increased tariffs on Indian goods by the United States and sanctions on Russian oil purchases have added complexity. Discussions on India-China trade are also expected during Wang Yi’s visit.
Wang Yi is set to hold focused discussions on the border situation with India’s National Security Advisor (NSA) Ajit Doval, who is the designated Special Representative for border talks. Doval previously visited China in December 2024, and discussions were held with Wang.
Wang Yi’s itinerary involves meetings with Foreign Minister S Jaishankar, followed by talks with NSA Ajit Doval, where key issues like the border situation, trade, and the reinstatement of flight services are anticipated to be on the agenda. Additionally, Wang Yi will meet with Prime Minister Modi.
Prime Minister Modi is set to embark on a two-day visit to China from August 31 to participate in the Shanghai Cooperation Organization meeting in Beijing. This marks his sixth trip to China as Prime Minister, the most recent one being in 2018.