EAM Jaishankar meets Chinese counterpart Wang Yi in Bali; calls for early resolution of outstanding issues along LAC
External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar today met his Chinese counterpart Wang Yi in Bali, Indonesia on the sidelines of the G-20 Foreign Ministers’ Meeting. Dr. Jaishankar is on a two-day official visit to Bali to participate in the G-20 Foreign Ministers’ Meeting.
During the meeting with Mr Wang Yi, the External Affairs Minister called for an early resolution of all the outstanding issues along the Line of Actual Control in Eastern Ladakh. Recalling the disengagement achieved in some friction areas, Dr Jaishankar reiterated the need to sustain the momentum to complete disengagement from all the remaining areas to restore peace and tranquility in the border areas. He also reaffirmed the importance of fully abiding by bilateral agreements and protocols and the understandings reached between the two Ministers during their previous conversations. In this regard, both the Ministers affirmed that the military and diplomatic officials of the two sides should continue maintaining regular contact and looked forward to the next round of Senior Commanders’ Meeting at an early date. Dr Jaishankar reiterated that India-China relationship is best served by observing the three mutuals – mutual respect, mutual sensitivity, and mutual interests.
The External Affairs Minister also recalled his meeting with Mr Wang Yi in Delhi in March 2022 and reviewed the progress of some key issues discussed then, including the return of students. Dr Jaishankar stressed the need for expediting the process and facilitating the return of students on an early date.
The two Ministers also exchanged perspectives on other regional and global developments. Mr Yi appreciated India’s support during China’s BRICS Chairship this year and assured China’s support for India’s upcoming G-20 and SCO Presidency. They also agreed to remain in touch.
During the visit, Dr. Jaishankar is expected to hold several bilateral meetings with his counterparts from other G-20 member states and invited countries. At the G-20 Foreign Ministers’ Meeting, participating Foreign Ministers will deliberate on issues of contemporary relevance such as strengthening multilateralism and current global challenges including food and energy security. External Affairs Ministry said that participation in the meeting will strengthen India’s engagement with G-20 member states.
