S. Jaishankar Meets Chinese VP, Notes Improvement in Indo-China Bilateral Ties

External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar on Monday underscored the importance of maintaining open channels of communication between India and China, stating that sustained dialogue was essential to achieving a mutually beneficial relationship.

Speaking during a meeting with Chinese Vice President Han Zheng in Beijing, Jaishankar emphasised that continued exchange of views and perspectives was crucial for the two neighbouring countries. He noted that normalisation of bilateral ties through consistent dialogue remains the only path toward a positive and constructive outcome for both sides.

Continued Exchange of Views Key to India-China Ties

According to media reports, S. Jaishankar emphasised the importance of an open exchange of views between India and China, especially given the current complex global landscape.

“The international situation, as we meet today, is very complex,” Jaishankar said. “As neighbouring nations and major economies, it is very important that India and China maintain an open exchange of views and perspectives. I look forward to such discussions during this visit.”

Bridging Ties for Better Bilateral Relations

The External Minister also highlighted signs of improvement in India-China relations and reiterated India’s support for China’s presidency of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO).

In a post on X following his arrival in Beijing, Jaishankar wrote: “Pleased to meet Vice President Han Zheng soon after my arrival in Beijing today. Conveyed India’s support for China’s SCO Presidency. Noted the improvement in our bilateral ties and expressed confidence that discussions during my visit will maintain that positive trajectory.”

Jaishankar also welcomed the resumption of the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra, which had been suspended for five years due to the COVID-19 pandemic and strained diplomatic ties. He remarked that the reopening of the pilgrimage route to Tibet has been widely appreciated in India.

Pleased to meet Vice President Han Zheng soon after my arrival in Beijing today.

Conveyed India’s support for China’s SCO Presidency.

Noted the improvement in our bilateral ties. And expressed confidence that discussions during my visit will maintain that positive trajectory. pic.twitter.com/F8hXRHVyOE

— Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) July 14, 2025

Diplomatic Exchange with SCO Chief

 S. Jaishankar also met with Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Secretary General Nurlan Yermekbayev. The meeting focused on the role and relevance of the 10-member regional bloc, along with ongoing efforts to modernise its functioning.

“Glad to meet SCO SG Nurlan Yermekbayev in Beijing today. Discussed the contribution and importance of SCO, as well as the endeavors to modernize its working,” Jaishankar posted on X following the meeting.

Return to China After Galwan Clash

The Minister arrived in China after concluding his visit to Singapore, marking his first trip to Beijing in five years. During this visit, he will participate in the SCO Council of Foreign Ministers' Meeting (CFM) in Tianjin and hold several bilateral meetings on the sidelines.

The 25th Heads of State Council meeting of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation is scheduled to take place in Tianjin later this year. Notably, India held the SCO presidency in 2023, while Pakistan hosted the SCO Leaders' Summit in 2024, according to ANI.

This visit is also significant as it marks Jaishankar’s first trip to China since relations between the two countries soured following the deadly Galwan Valley clash along the Line of Actual Control in 2020.

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