External Affairs Minister (EAM) S. Jaishankar has underlined that the foundation for positive momentum in India-China relations lies in jointly ensuring peace and tranquility along the border. His remarks came during a meeting with visiting Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi in New Delhi on Monday.

Jaishankar noted that while bilateral issues will be discussed, the immediate priority is to ensure progress in the de-escalation process along disputed border areas. “The basis for any positive momentum in our ties is the ability to jointly maintain peace and tranquility in the border areas. It is also essential that the de-escalation process move forward,” he said in his opening statement.

The meeting, attended by Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri and senior officials, precedes a fresh round of Special Representatives’ dialogue on the boundary question between Wang Yi and National Security Adviser Ajit Doval on Tuesday. Wang Yi is also scheduled to call on Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Highlighting broader concerns, Jaishankar said India and China, as the world’s two largest nations, must pursue a fair, balanced, and multipolar order in both Asia and globally. He emphasized the need for cooperation in counterterrorism, economic stability, and reformed multilateralism.

The EAM also listed specific areas of engagement, including trade, connectivity, river data sharing, pilgrimages, and people-to-people exchanges. Stressing a “candid and constructive approach,” he urged adherence to the three mutuals — mutual respect, mutual sensitivity, and mutual interest.

India and China are also working closely under the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO), with the upcoming summit in Tianjin later this month set to be attended by Prime Minister Modi. Jaishankar expressed hope that the talks would help create a stable and forward-looking relationship that balances cooperation with sensitivity to core concerns.