The 23rd India-China Special Representatives meeting marked a significant step in restoring bilateral ties, focusing on the boundary dispute, economic cooperation, and resumption of key bilateral exchanges after 2020 tensions.

• India and China have had a long and complex relationship, with the boundary dispute being a central issue.
• Recent developments, particularly the 23rd meeting of the Special Representatives (SRs) of India and China, indicate a significant shift towards restoring diplomatic ties after years of military tensions. 
• The meeting, which took place between India’s National Security Adviser Ajit Doval and Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi, marks a milestone in the efforts to re-establish communication and resolve issues.

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Significance of the SR Meeting

• The decision to hold the SR talk signals that New Delhi is ready to proceed with other mechanisms for talks with Beijing. 
• This is despite the fact that only the LAC disengagement has been completed, without waiting for the next stages of de-escalation and de-induction.

Key Outcomes of the SR Talks

The meeting reflected a desire to move beyond the current disengagement process and explore mechanisms for deeper cooperation. Both sides agreed to:

• Restart the Kailash-Mansarovar Yatra from India.
• Resume border trade in Sikkim.
• Engage in data sharing for trans-boundary rivers.
• Discuss resumption of other suspended ties, such as direct flights, business and student visa liberalization, and journalist exchanges.

Boundary Dispute Resolution 

• The boundary issue remains a central concern, and during the SR talks, both parties emphasized the continuation of the LAC de-escalation process. 
• The discussions also focused on implementing the Eleven-articles set out in the 2005 agreement for resolving the boundary dispute. 
• In this regard, the two sides agreed on confidence-building measures and enhancing coordination of the SR process, alongside the Working Mechanism for Consultation and Coordination on India-China Border Affairs.      

Way ahead

The 23rd SR meeting comes just ahead of 2025, marking 75 years of diplomatic relations between India and China. A potential visit by Prime Minister Narendra Modi to China for the SCO summit in 2025 could further strengthen ties.

• Normalizing Relations: As both countries work towards normalizing relations, it is essential for them to remain committed to peacefully resolving disputes.
• India’s Vigilance and Preparedness: India needs to stay vigilant and cautious in its approach to security and diplomacy.
• Transparency and Clarity from Government: The Indian government must maintain transparency and provide clarity in its actions to build trust and prevent misunderstandings.

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Conclusion

The resumption of the SR talks between India and China signals a positive shift in bilateral relations, marking the restoration of diplomatic dialogue after years of strained ties. While this development holds promise for deeper cooperation, it is critical to proceed with caution. India must ensure that the lessons of 2020 are not forgotten and work toward establishing a robust framework for deterrence and dispute resolution, with a focus on transparency, communication, and mutual trust.

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