Jaishankar’s landmark visit to China signals renewed diplomatic momentum post-Galwan
Normalization of our relationship can yield mutually beneficial outcomes -- Dr. S. Jaishankar
In a significant step toward the normalization of strained India-China relations, External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar arrived in Beijing today for a three-day visit — his first since the deadly Galwan Valley clash in 2020. The visit comes as both nations mark 75 years of diplomatic ties, and as the global geopolitical landscape grows increasingly complex.
Shortly after landing, Jaishankar met with Chinese Vice-President Han Zheng, describing the bilateral relationship as being on a “steadily improving” trajectory since Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s meeting with President Xi Jinping in Kazan last October. “Normalization of our relationship can yield mutually beneficial outcomes,” Jaishankar said, highlighting India’s readiness to strengthen engagement through open dialogue and cooperation.
The External Affairs Minister is in China to participate in the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Foreign Ministers’ Meeting in Tianjin on July 14–15. Ahead of the summit, he also met with SCO Secretary-General Nurlan Yermekbayev to discuss modernization efforts within the organization and India’s commitment to regional cooperation, according to news agencies.
One of the most notable announcements during the visit was the resumption of the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra, a sacred pilgrimage halted since 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic and bilateral tensions. “The resumption of the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra is much appreciated in India. It’s a meaningful step toward restoring normalcy,” Jaishankar remarked.
Amid rising global uncertainties — from the Russia-Ukraine conflict to tensions in the Middle East and escalating trade frictions — Jaishankar stressed the importance of sustained dialogue between the two Asian giants.
“The global situation is very complicated. As neighboring countries and major economies, India and China must maintain open channels for exchanging visions and ideas,” he said during his meeting with Vice President Han.
In a post on social media platform X, Jaishankar wrote: “Delighted to meet Vice President Han Zheng shortly after my arrival in Beijing. Expressed India’s appreciation for China’s SCO Presidency. Discussed enhancement of our bilateral relationship. Confident the talks will maintain positive momentum.”
Ahead of the SCO meetings, Jaishankar is expected to meet with his Chinese counterpart Wang Yi. High-level discussions are anticipated to cover sensitive and strategic matters including — border issues along the Line of Actual Control (LAC); tensions over the Dalai Lama’s succession; India-Pakistan relations, particularly following the recent Pahalgam terror attack and rare earth imports, which are vital for India’s tech and defense sectors.
The visit, while cautious in tone, marks a clear shift toward reengagement and comes amid the symbolic celebration of 75 years of India-China diplomatic relations. Analysts view this as a window of tentative optimism for both nations to stabilize ties and foster cooperation in a time of global instability.
With the groundwork laid for deeper conversation, Jaishankar’s Beijing visit could prove vital in redefining the tone of India-China relations in the post-Galwan era.
