India and China have reaffirmed their commitment to resume the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra, improve cross-border river cooperation, and promote Nathula border trade during the 23rd Special Representatives meeting on the boundary question, held on December 18, 2024, in Beijing. This marks the first such meeting in five years, following the leaders’ consensus in Kazan.
In discussions led by Wang Yi (Chinese Special Representative) and Ajit Doval (Indian Special Representative), both sides agreed to bolster mechanisms for diplomatic and military negotiations to ensure peace along the border. Plans were set for a follow-up meeting in India next year to further these initiatives.
The meeting highlighted the importance of a stable and predictable bilateral relationship for regional and global peace. The two nations positively assessed the recent border disengagement agreement of October 2024 and agreed to refine border management rules and enhance confidence-building measures.
Both sides acknowledged the need to continue working towards a mutually acceptable solution to the boundary dispute, guided by the 2005 political framework. The discussions also emphasized ensuring that border issues do not impede broader bilateral ties.
Additionally, both representatives exchanged views on bilateral, regional, and international issues of mutual interest. They emphasized renewing cross-border exchanges, including the pilgrimage to Tibet and cooperation on trans-border rivers.
NSA Ajit Doval extended an invitation to Wang Yi for the next round of talks in India, further signaling a commitment to long-term diplomatic engagement and peace.
