New Delhi: National Security Advisor Ajit Doval has travelled to Beijing for the 25th round of India China Special Representatives’ talks, with border stability, de-escalation and the long standing boundary dispute expected to dominate discussions.
Doval is scheduled to meet Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi under the Special Representatives’ mechanism, which serves as one of the key diplomatic channels for addressing the boundary issue between the two countries.
The talks assume added significance ahead of Chinese President Xi Jinping’s expected visit to India for the BRICS Summit in September. Both sides are expected to assess the latest situation along the Line of Actual Control and discuss measures to prevent renewed tensions.
The two representatives are likely to review the disengagement arrangements reached in October 2024 and examine subsequent steps aimed at reducing military confrontation along the border. Restoration of patrolling arrangements and further consolidation of the gradual normalisation process following the 2020 Galwan Valley crisis are also expected to feature prominently.
The broader boundary dispute, stretching across the approximately 3,488 km frontier, will also be discussed. The two sides are expected to explore mechanisms for maintaining peace and building confidence while working towards a longer term framework for resolving the dispute.
Another focus will be strengthening existing border management mechanisms across the Western, Middle and Eastern sectors. Discussions could also cover the Expert Group under the Working Mechanism for Consultation and Coordination, which is examining possible early measures related to boundary delimitation in suitable sectors.
The meeting is also expected to include a broader review of India China relations, including confidence building measures and cross border cooperation.
Xi Jinping’s expected India visit has added diplomatic importance to the talks. Although Beijing and New Delhi have not formally confirmed his participation, expectations remain that he could attend the BRICS Summit and potentially hold talks with Prime Minister Narendra Modi on the sidelines.
The outcome of the Doval Wang discussions could therefore play an important role in shaping the atmosphere surrounding the next phase of India China relations.
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