China has expressed approval of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s comments regarding India’s independent foreign policy, following his discussion with Chinese President Xi Jinping at the BRICS Summit in New Delhi. The Chinese Foreign Ministry, through spokesperson Guo Jiakun, highlighted the significance of Modi’s assurance that India’s relationship with China would remain uninfluenced by other countries. Both nations recognized the importance of maintaining a supportive partnership to foster mutual development.
President Xi emphasized that despite differing national contexts, China and India should prioritize collaboration while handling their differences with mutual respect and understanding. This sentiment was echoed by Modi, who underscored the necessity of peace and stability along the border as a prerequisite for enhancing bilateral ties. He also reiterated the importance of adhering to existing agreements and understandings related to border issues.
The leadership of both countries conveyed their commitment to pursuing a fair and mutually acceptable resolution to the boundary dispute, stressing that differences should not escalate into conflicts. The meeting between Modi and Xi comes in the wake of longstanding tensions along the Line of Actual Control, where both nations have been engaged in a military standoff.
Progress has been made with an agreement reached in October 2024, which facilitated the disengagement of troops from various friction points in the Ladakh sector. This development has been pivotal in reducing military tensions between the two countries. The recent meeting underscores a mutual desire to build on this progress and address longstanding issues through diplomatic engagement.