Critical Setback: S Jaishankar Expresses Disappointment Over Troubled Relations with China
External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar stressed on July 29 that India’s relationship with China remains strained and far from normal. Speaking to reporters in Tokyo, Jaishankar pointed to ongoing tensions resulting from border disputes. He cited the 2020 Galwan Valley clash, which took place during the COVID-19 pandemic when China intensified its military presence in border areas, violating agreements and prompting deadly clashes.
Jaishankar emphasized that these tensions have not been fully resolved, maintaining a heavy impact on bilateral relations. “Our views on China are shaped by our experiences, especially the 2020 incident where both sides suffered casualties due to a breach of prior agreements,” Jaishankar explained. He reiterated that the relationship is currently “not good, not normal,” and underscored the need for mutual respect for the Line of Actual Control (LOC) and compliance with previous agreements to improve ties.
In a related diplomatic move, India, along with Australia, Japan, and the United States, launched the “Quad Maritime Legal Dialogue” under the Quad Maritime Security Working Group. This initiative is aimed at addressing international maritime law issues and bolstering the rules-based order in the Indo-Pacific region. A joint statement from the participating countries highlighted the significance of a cooperative, equitable, and respectful regional framework, promoting free and fair trade.
The developments come amid heightened geopolitical tensions and underline India’s strategic positioning concerning both its bilateral and multilateral engagements. As the Galwan Valley incident continues to cast a shadow over India-China relations, initiatives like the Quad Maritime Legal Dialogue signal India’s commitment to a collaborative and rules-based international order.
Original Story https://www.indiatodayne.in/international/story/our-relations-with-china-not-doing-very-well-says-s-jaishankar-1059849-2024-07-29?utm_source=rssfeed
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