Ajit Doval, Wang Yi meet for China-India boundary talks

"The talks were constructive and forward looking, and focussed on taking forward the India-China Closer Developmental Partnership in pursuance of the guidance provided by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Xi Jinping at their Informal Summit at Wuhan in April 2018," read a statement issued by India's Ministry of External Affairs.

The Special Representatives undertook a comprehensive review of earlier rounds of talks under the SR mechanism. Recalling the strategic guidance and support to their work provided by the leaders at the Wuhan Summit, the Special Representatives resolved to intensify their efforts to achieve a fair, reasonable and mutually acceptable solution to the India-China boundary question at an early date.

They underlined the importance of approaching the boundary question from the strategic perspective of India-China relations and agreed that an early settlement of the boundary question serves the fundamental interests of both countries.

The Special Representatives agreed that pending the final resolution of the boundary question, it is important to maintain peace and tranquility in the border areas and to ensure that the boundary question does not affect the overall development of the bilateral relationship. In this context, they noted the mature handling of issues relating to the India-China border areas since the Wuhan Summit.

Acknowledging the importance of predictability in border management, and in that context, underscoring the importance of maintaining strategic communication at all levels, the Special Representatives held discussions on various confidence building measures to promote exchanges and communication between their border personnel.

They directed the bilateral Working Mechanism on Consultation & Coordination for Border Affairs to work out further details in this regard.

The Special Representatives reviewed recent developments in bilateral relations following the Wuhan Summit in April 2018 and subsequent meetings between Prime Minister Modi and President Xi in Qingdao in June 2018 and in Johannesburg in July 2018.

The two Special Representatives underlined the importance of sustained and effective implementation of the directions given by their leaders with a view to further strengthening the Closer Developmental Partnership between India and China to mutual benefit and with due respect for each other’s sensitivities, concerns and aspirations.

They shared the view that stable and balanced development of India-China relations is a positive factor for peace and prosperity in the region and the whole world.
The Special Representatives also exchanged views on regional and global issues of common interest and agreed to maintain close consultations on such issues.