National Security Advisor Ajit Doval met with top Chinese diplomat Wang Yi on the sidelines of the ‘Friends of BRICS’ meeting in Johannesburg, South Africa. The conference aimed to address bilateral ties between India and China, especially in the ongoing military standoff along the Line of Actual Control (LAC).
During the meeting, the two diplomats also discussed regional security issues and the importance of collaboration in addressing everyday challenges. They acknowledged the significance of the India-China bilateral relationship not only for the two countries but also for the Asian region and the world. Both sides expressed their commitment to maintaining peace and stability in the border areas and finding peaceful resolutions to outstanding disputes. The meeting concluded positively, with Ajit Doval and Wang Yi expressing their mutual desire to strengthen communication and cooperation between India and China.
Addressing the Ongoing Standoff
The meeting comes shortly after External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar’s discussion with Wang Yi in Jakarta, Indonesia, focusing on issues related to peace and tranquillity in the border areas. The prolonged military standoff has been described as one of the most complex challenges in Jaishankar’s diplomatic career.
Emphasising Peace and Normalcy
India has consistently emphasised that a return to normalcy in the border area is crucial for normalising bilateral relations. In the meeting with Ajit Doval, Wang Yi expressed the importance of enhancing strategic mutual trust, finding common ground, and fostering cooperation to overcome obstacles and promote sound and stable development in bilateral relations.
China’s Commitment to Multilateralism
Wang Yi reaffirmed China’s commitment to multilateralism, democratic international relations, and supporting the equitable development of the international order. He emphasised that China will never seek hegemony and is willing to collaborate with developing countries, including India.
Collective Efforts on Cybersecurity
Regarding cybersecurity, Ajit Doval called for collective efforts to address challenges and highlighted India’s commitment to assisting the Global South in overcoming resource limitations. He stressed the increasing gravity of cyber risks due to the rapid advancement of technologies and the linkages between cybercriminals and terrorists.
Deliberations at ‘Friends of BRICS‘ MeetingÂ
The ‘Friends of BRICS meeting provided a platform for extensive discussions on pressing issues, including cybersecurity’s connection to terrorism. BRICS, Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa were established in 2009 to foster peace, security, development, and cooperation, especially in the Global South.
Navigating the Bilateral Relationship
While India and China continue to navigate their bilateral relationship, the meeting between Ajit Doval and Wang Yi holds particular significance. The two nations faced a deadly clash in Ladakh in May 2020, which heightened regional tensions. However, both sides recognise the importance of their relationship and its impact on the Asian region and the world.
Emerging Opportunities for Cooperation
Despite the challenges in India-China relations, there are emerging opportunities for cooperation between the two nations. India and China are major players in the global economy and have significant roles in international trade and investment. Finding common ground in economic and trade matters could lead to a more robust and mutually beneficial relationship. As Asian economies continue to rise, collaboration on regional development projects and infrastructure initiatives could enhance connectivity and spur economic growth across the continent.
Hopes for Progress
Despite the situation’s complexity, diplomatic efforts remain ongoing to restore peace and tranquillity in the border areas and pave the way for a constructive and stable relationship between India and China. The BRICS summit, hosted by South Africa next month, serves as a platform for further dialogues and collaborations among the member states.
The meeting between Ajit Doval and Wang Yi reflects the continued commitment of India and China to address their differences and find avenues for cooperation. As both nations engage in constructive dialogues, the international community eagerly awaits progress in de-escalating tensions and fostering a harmonious relationship between the two Asian giants. The conference and efforts made in these high-level meetings play a crucial role in shaping the future of bilateral relations and regional stability.
