Modi-Xi handshake

• BRICS Summit 2024: The two leaders also welcomed the agreement between their countries on patrolling along the LAC as part of a process they hope will eventually lead to disengagement and de-escalation.

Highlights:

• Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping met during the 16th BRICS Summit, marking the first major step in reviving relations after tensions stemming from Chinese incursions in eastern Ladakh over four years ago.
• Both leaders emphasized that maintaining peace on the border should be a priority and stressed the need for “mutual trust, respect, and sensitivity.”

Emphasis on Properly Handling Disputes:

• During the talks, both Modi and Xi underscored the importance of managing differences peacefully. Xi also called for increased communication and cooperation, noting the international community’s attention on their meeting.

Agreement on Patrolling Along LAC:

• The leaders welcomed a recent agreement on patrolling the Line of Actual Control (LAC), which is hoped to lead to disengagement and de-escalation. Indian and Chinese special representatives will soon meet to address boundary issues, resuming talks halted since 2019.

Resumption of Diplomatic Channels:

• India’s Ministry of External Affairs highlighted the need to resume bilateral diplomatic conversations to stabilize relations. Modi emphasized that India-China relations are vital for global peace and stability, echoing sentiments of mutual cooperation.

Xi Jinping’s Remarks:

• Xi highlighted the significance of China and India’s historical ties, calling for cooperation in pursuing modernization and development goals. He stressed the importance of setting an example for other developing nations and promoting a multi-polar world order.

Disengagement and Future Talks:

• The MEA reiterated Modi’s view that boundary issues must not disturb border peace. Both leaders agreed that their special representatives should meet soon to seek a mutually acceptable solution to the boundary question.

Strategic Long-Term Perspective:

• The leaders reviewed bilateral relations with a focus on the future, asserting that stable ties would benefit regional and global peace. Both sides recognized the need for mature diplomacy and respect for each other’s concerns and interests.

Next Steps:

• Officials from both countries will now work on enhancing strategic communication and stabilizing relations. The leaders also briefly discussed regional and international developments and agreed to maintain close communication. Modi assured India’s support for China’s presidency of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) in 2025.

Prelims Takeaways:

• India-China boundary disputes