Beijing: In a significant diplomatic engagement, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar met Chinese President Xi Jinping in Beijing on Tuesday, alongside fellow foreign ministers attending the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) conclave. The meeting marked Jaishankar’s first visit to China since the 2020 Galwan Valley clashes, signalling a cautiously optimistic shift in bilateral dialogue.
During the interaction, Jaishankar conveyed greetings from President Droupadi Murmu and Prime Minister Narendra Modi to President Xi, and briefed him on the recent developments in India-China relations. He also highlighted the importance of sustained top-level leadership in navigating complex regional dynamics.
“Called on President Xi Jinping this morning in Beijing along with my fellow SCO Foreign Ministers. Conveyed the greetings of President Droupadi Murmu & Prime Minister @narendramodi. Apprised President Xi of the recent development of our bilateral ties. Value the guidance of our leaders in that regard,” Jaishankar posted on social media platform X.
The meeting with President Xi came a day after Jaishankar held discussions with Chinese Vice President Han Zheng, where both sides reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening bilateral ties and broadening cooperation under the SCO framework.
According to Chinese state media Xinhua, Vice President Han referred to the meeting between Prime Minister Modi and President Xi in Kazan in October 2024 as a “new starting point” for India-China relations. The conversation underscored the importance of strategic communication and constructive dialogue, even amid ongoing differences.
