India-China relations have improved since October 2024, said External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on March 26, 2025. He highlighted that both countries are making a concerted effort to resolve the problems brought on by the 2020 tensions, especially in the wake of the border impasse in eastern Ladakh.
Specifically referring to military responses and disdain for agreements during the 2020 crises, Jaishankar emphasised that efforts are underway to restore bilateral ties and partially repair the harm caused by previous acts.
Jaishankar considered the historical background of India-China relations in an interview with Kyung-wha Kang of the Asia Society, pointing out that it took years for diplomatic relations to normalise following the 1962 conflict.
He expressed optimism that the two nations could resolve their disputes amicably via discussion and compromise. In saying, “Differences should not become disputes and competition should not become conflict,” he emphasised the need for future contacts to be resolved pragmatically.
As part of larger attempts to restore peace following a protracted period of tension, the minister also brought up recent agreements reached in October 2024 about patrolling arrangements in critical areas along the Line of Actual Control (LAC).
He said that continuing diplomatic contacts have been essential to achieving a more solid relationship, with both parties dedicated to working together to resolve critical areas of concern.
Even though the India-China relationship will continue to face difficulties, Jaishankar agreed that there are positive approaches to deal with these problems going forward. He pointed out that recent high-level gatherings have offered strategic direction for the future growth of ties and emphasised how crucial border peace is to the two countries’ overall relationship.
