Path To Normalised Relations Involves Swift Resolution Of Border Standoff, Modi Tells Xi Amid Intense Military Negotiations

Prime Minister Narendra Modi told Chinese President Xi Jinping to quickly resolve border standoff for speedy normalisation in India-China ties.

PM Modi met Xi briefly at the leaders' lounge in South Africa, on the sidelines of the BRICS Summit.

According to a report by Hindustan Times, while China aims to normalise relations between the two countries by keeping the border standoff separate from other issues, Prime Minister Modi raised concerns about the significant deployment of the People's Liberation Army (PLA) in eastern Ladakh.

This comes amid intense military deliberations aimed at identifying a workable solution for the last two remaining standoff points in Depsang and Demchok, ahead of the Modi-Xi meet to be held alongside the G-20 summit.

Prime Minister Modi emphasised the need for normalisation after completing disengagement and de-escalation along the 3,488 km Line of Actual Control (LAC).

However, the Chinese perspective appears to lean towards prioritising swift normalisation of ties while sidelining the sensitive boundary matters.

This approach aligns with China's historical stance since 1977, advocating a parallel-track diplomacy strategy by compartmentalising the boundary dispute from trade relationships, which resulted in a trade deficit of nearly $70 billion in China's favour.

The divergence in viewpoints became apparent as both India and China issued separate statements regarding the Modi-Xi meeting, reflecting minimal common ground achieved.

According to the report, essentially, the two sides conveyed the distinct stances of their respective nations.

The Chinese official statement asserted that President Xi held talks with Prime Minister Modi in response to the India's request.

In contrast, Indian authoritative confirmed that this meeting was initiated by the Chinese side, contradicting the statement released by the Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson.

President Xi emphasised the mutual benefit of enhancing China-India relations, asserting its positive impact on both countries and the global peace, stability, and development landscape.

He urged both sides to consider the broader interests of bilateral relations and effectively address the border issue to safeguard tranquility along the border.

India's Foreign Secretary Vinay Kwatra highlighted that Prime Minister Modi conveyed India's concerns about lingering issues along the Eastern Ladakh LAC.

The Prime Minister underscored that maintaining peace in border regions was vital for normalising India-China ties.

To this end, both leaders agreed to direct their respective officials to intensify efforts toward prompt disengagement and de-escalation.