India, China Hold Strategic Dialogue In Delhi; Discuss Trade, Visas And Border Peace

India and China held a round of high-level strategic talks in New Delhi, with both sides reviewing recent efforts to stabilise ties and emphasising the need to maintain peace along the border as a foundation for improving relations. Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri led the Indian delegation at the India–China Strategic Dialogue, while China was represented by Executive Vice Foreign Minister Ma Zhaoxu, who is in India to attend the BRICS Sherpa Meeting from February 8 to 10, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said.

According to the MEA, the two sides exchanged views on a broad range of bilateral, regional and international issues. Discussions on bilateral ties focused on recent progress in rebuilding engagement and on identifying ways to take

the relationship forward after a prolonged period of strain.

Both delegations underlined that peace and tranquillity in the border areas are essential for overall progress in India–China relations. They reiterated their commitment to implementing the guidance provided by their respective leaders, including the need to approach issues related to bilateral trade from a political and strategic perspective.

The Foreign Secretary noted the successful resumption of the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra and expressed hope that the scale of the pilgrimage could be expanded further in the future. The two sides also recognised the need to conclude an updated Air Services Agreement at an early date. They agreed to continue taking practical steps to facilitate visas and promote greater people-to-people exchanges.

Multilateral cooperation also featured in the talks, particularly in the context of India’s BRICS Chairship this year. The Chinese side expressed support for the successful hosting of the BRICS Summit in India. During the dialogue, Ma Zhaoxu also conveyed that China understands and respects India’s aspirations for membership of the United Nations Security Council.

The dialogue comes amid efforts by both countries to normalise ties while managing long-standing differences, especially along the Line of Actual Control.