Qingdao: QingdaoDefence Minister Rajnath Singh on Friday met Chinese Defence Minister Admiral Dong Jun in Qingdao, urging Beijing to work jointly with India to keep bilateral relations on a steady course. Singh underlined the need to refrain from creating “new complexities” in ties as the two Asian giants seek to build on recent positive momentum.
After the meeting, Rajnath Singh posted on X that the two sides had a “constructive and forward looking exchange of views” on their relationship. Emphasising caution and stability, Singh noted, “It is incumbent on both the sides to maintain this positive momentum and avoid adding new complexities in the bilateral relationship.”
Singh is visiting China to attend a conclave of defence ministers of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO). Admiral Dong Jun personally welcomed him on his arrival Thursday, reflecting a warmer tone in the India-China relationship after years of border tension.
In a symbolic gesture, Rajnath Singh presented Admiral Dong with a Madhubani painting from the Mithila region of Bihar, reflecting India’s traditional culture.
Relations between New Delhi and Beijing have shown a visible thaw, particularly after the disengagement of troops from the Depsang and Demchok sectors of eastern Ladakh in 2024. Another milestone came with India resuming the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra to Tibet after a five-year break due to the Covid-19 pandemic.
Expressing satisfaction about this resumption, Singh said he was pleased that Indian pilgrims would again be able to undertake the spiritual journey. The first batch will cross into China via the Lipulekh Pass on July 10, while the final group is scheduled to return to India on August 22.
Diplomatic contacts between the two countries have also grown, with National Security Advisor Ajit Doval meeting Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi in Beijing on June 23. That meeting reaffirmed the aim to expand people-to-people engagement and nurture broader bilateral cooperation.
