Bilateral Talks Highlight Importance of International Cooperation
G20:External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar and Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi held significant discussions on the sidelines of the G20 Foreign Ministers’ meeting in Johannesburg, South Africa, on February 21, 2025. The meeting underscored the importance of maintaining the integrity of the G20 amid a polarized global situation. Jaishankar highlighted that both countries have worked hard to preserve and protect the G20 as an institution, emphasizing the importance of international cooperation.
Progress in India-China Relations
Jaishankar and Wang reviewed the progress made in bilateral relations since their last meeting in Rio during the G20 Summit in November 2024. They discussed various aspects of their relationship, including the management of peace and tranquility in border areas, the resumption of the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra, direct flight connectivity, and travel facilitation. China mentioned that exchanges at all levels between the two countries have been restored in an orderly manner.
Special Focus on Regional and Global Issues
The ministers also exchanged views on regional and global issues of mutual interest, including the G20, the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO), and BRICS. Jaishankar emphasized that platforms like the G20 provided opportunities for interaction between India and China even during challenging phases in their bilateral relations. Both countries agreed to enhance cultural exchanges, facilitate personnel exchanges, and jointly maintain peace and tranquility in border areas.
Significance of the G20 for India and China
Jaishankar stressed that in a polarized global situation, the efforts of India and China to preserve the G20 as an institution testify to the importance of international cooperation. The G20 serves as a critical platform for both countries to address global challenges and foster economic cooperation. This meeting is part of a series of high-level engagements aimed at stabilizing and rebuilding ties between India and China.
Looking Ahead
The discussions between Jaishankar and Wang are expected to pave the way for further cooperation and dialogue between India and China. As 2025 marks the 75th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between the two countries, both sides have agreed to redouble public diplomacy efforts to create better awareness about each other and restore mutual trust and confidence. This meeting also sets the stage for future interactions, including the SCO foreign ministers’ meeting and the G20 Leaders Summit in November 2025.
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