China has expressed approval of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s comments regarding India’s independent foreign policy, following his meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping at the BRICS Summit in New Delhi. The Chinese Foreign Ministry, through spokesperson Guo Jiakun, emphasized the importance of Modi’s assertion that India’s relationship with China should not be swayed by other nations. This understanding underscores the need for China and India to maintain a partnership and support each other’s growth.
During the meeting, President Xi acknowledged that although China and India have distinct national circumstances, it is crucial to concentrate on collaborative efforts and manage any differences through mutual respect and understanding. This sentiment aligns with Modi’s focus on maintaining peace and stability along the border, which he highlighted as vital for enhancing bilateral relations between the two countries.
Modi also underscored the importance of adhering to existing agreements and understandings concerning border issues, reinforcing both leaders’ commitment to a fair and mutually agreeable resolution of the boundary dispute. They concurred that while differences exist, they should not escalate into disputes, reflecting a shared desire to foster cooperation.
The context of this meeting follows years of tension along the Line of Actual Control. Notably, India and China reached a significant agreement in October 2024 to withdraw troops from several contested areas in the Ladakh sector. This move has been instrumental in alleviating a prolonged military standoff, signaling a step towards more stable relations between the two nations.