India-China Diplomatic Relations
India has resumed issuing tourist visas for Chinese nationals, signaling progress in diplomacy following tensions from the LAC military standoff and the Galwan clash in 2020.
Recent Developments
- High-level meetings have taken place since the meeting between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping in Kazan last October.
- The Working Mechanism for Consultation and Coordination on India-China Border Affairs (WMCC) convened three times.
- China has reopened the Kailash Manasarovar Yatra pilgrimage, and both countries agreed to revive direct flights.
Trade and Economic Dialogues
- A joint statement mentioned “certain functional dialogues” focusing on economic issues and trade, aimed at addressing:
- India’s restrictions on Chinese investment.
- China’s export restrictions on fertilizers and critical minerals that are affecting tech companies and automotive sectors in India.
Upcoming Events and Diplomatic Efforts
- Preparations are ongoing for Prime Minister Modi's expected visit to the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation Summit in August.
- The WMCC discussed preparations for the next meeting of Special Representatives on India-China boundary disputes.
- China's Ministry of Foreign Affairs is addressing India's concerns about the mega-dam project on the Brahmaputra in Tibet.
Challenges and Concerns
- There has been minimal discussion about the initial causes of the 2020 tensions, such as the PLA's actions at the LAC.
- The Indian government previously stated that normalcy depends on “peace and tranquillity in the border areas”.
- Tensions continue due to Operation Sindoor revelations regarding the PLA’s collaboration with Pakistan’s army.
Conclusion
While efforts to restore bilateral ties are ongoing, the absence of transparency and resolution on pivotal issues poses a risk to the process of reviving relations between India and China.
