China has expressed approval of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s comments regarding India’s independent foreign policy, following a recent meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping. This discussion took place on the sidelines of the BRICS Summit in New Delhi. The Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson, Guo Jiakun, emphasized Beijing’s appreciation for Modi’s assurance that India’s relationship with China will remain uninfluenced by third-party nations. The core takeaway from the meeting, according to Guo, is that China and India should continue to support each other’s growth and maintain a partnership.
President Xi highlighted that despite the differing national contexts of China and India, both countries should prioritize cooperation while managing their differences through mutual respect and understanding. Modi underscored the necessity of maintaining peace and stability along the border as a foundational element for improving bilateral ties. He also emphasized the importance of adhering to existing agreements and understandings on border issues.
Both leaders have agreed to pursue a fair and mutually acceptable resolution of their boundary dispute. They stressed that while differences exist, they should not escalate into disputes. This meeting follows a period marked by tensions along the Line of Actual Control.
In a move that eased a prolonged military standoff, India and China reached an agreement in October 2024 to disengage troops from several friction points in the Ladakh sector. This development is seen as a positive step towards stabilizing relations and fostering an environment conducive to dialogue and cooperation between the two neighboring countries.