India, China Hold Bilateral Talks in Qingdao to Address Border Tensions

In a crucial diplomatic engagement aimed at easing border tensions and rebuilding mutual trust, Indian Defence Minister Rajnath Singh held bilateral talks with Chinese Defence Minister Admiral Dong Jun on the sidelines of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Defence Ministers’ Meeting in Qingdao.

The two leaders held in-depth discussions focused on maintaining peace and tranquillity along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) and reaffirmed the importance of sustained dialogue to address the long-standing border issues between the two nations. Both Ministers agreed to continue consultations at multiple levels to make progress on disengagement, de-escalation, and border management, and to eventually reach a delimitation and resolution through established mechanisms.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh acknowledged the recent efforts by both sides aimed at restoring a semblance of normalcy in bilateral relations. He underlined the necessity of resolving complex issues through a structured and permanent engagement framework, while calling for the revitalisation of existing mechanisms to ensure effective border management and demarcation.

In a firm message, he emphasised the importance of bridging the trust deficit that emerged following the 2020 border standoff. “Actions on the ground must reflect the intent of peace,” the Minister said, reiterating that good neighbourly relations are essential for achieving mutual benefits and for contributing to regional and global stability.

Singh also highlighted the 75th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between India and China as an important milestone, underscoring the need to harness historical ties for forward-looking cooperation. He welcomed the resumption of the Kailash Manasarovar Yatra after a five-year hiatus, describing it as a positive cultural and spiritual development for both nations.

During the meeting, the Raksha Mantri also briefed his Chinese counterpart on the heinous terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Jammu & Kashmir, on April 22, 2025, which targeted innocent civilians. He informed Admiral Dong about Operation Sindoor, India’s ongoing counter-terror initiative focused on dismantling terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan, and called for greater regional cooperation to combat cross-border terrorism.