External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar met with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi in New Delhi on Monday, August 18, 2025, for discussions focused on strengthening bilateral relations, trade, and regional stability. The meeting, which occurred during Wang Yi's two-day visit to India, aimed to address existing differences and foster a more cooperative relationship between the two nations.
Jaishankar emphasized the importance of the "three mutuals" – mutual respect, mutual sensitivity, and mutual interest – as guiding principles for India-China relations. He stressed that disagreements should not escalate into disputes, nor should competition turn into conflict. He further added that both countries should adopt a candid and constructive approach to move forward, especially after a "difficult period" in their relationship.
The discussions covered a wide array of topics, including economic and trade ties, people-to-people contacts, pilgrimages, river data sharing, border trade, connectivity, and bilateral exchanges. Jaishankar also addressed specific concerns that he had previously raised with Wang Yi during his visit to China in July.
In light of the current international environment, Jaishankar highlighted the need to preserve and enhance stability in the global economy. He reiterated India's desire for a fair, balanced, and multipolar world order, advocating for reformed multilateralism. He also raised the issue of terrorism, emphasizing that the fight against terrorism in all its forms remains a major priority for India. He pointed out that India continues to face cross-border terrorism.
Wang Yi acknowledged the areas of cooperation and confidence-building measures between the two countries. He noted the maintenance of peace and tranquility in the border areas and the resumption of Indian pilgrimages to Mount Kailash and Lake Mansarovar in Tibet. He expressed confidence in dispelling interference and expanding cooperation to consolidate the improvement of China-India relations.
The visit also marks the 24th round of talks between the Special Representatives of India and China. Wang Yi is scheduled to meet with National Security Advisor Ajit Doval on Tuesday to further discuss border issues. Jaishankar underscored that maintaining peace and tranquility in the border areas and advancing the de-escalation process are essential for positive momentum in bilateral ties.
This visit is the first by a Chinese minister since the meeting between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Xi Jinping in Kazan, Russia, in October 2024. It also precedes the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Summit in Tianjin, which China will host. India has been working closely with China during its SCO presidency and anticipates a successful summit with strong outcomes.
Both leaders expressed their commitment to building a stable, cooperative, and forward-looking relationship between India and China that serves their mutual interests and addresses their concerns.
