India–China Ties on the Mend: Jaishankar’s Strategic Visit Marks a Diplomatic Thaw

A Pivotal Visit Amidst Years of Tension

External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar’s visit to China in July 2025 marks a significant moment in the recent history of India–China relations. It is the first standalone bilateral visit by an Indian foreign minister since the deadly Galwan Valley clash in June 2020, a watershed moment that froze diplomatic warmth and intensified mutual mistrust. The timing of this visit, alongside the SCO Foreign Ministers' meeting in Tianjin, provided a strategic platform for both countries to recalibrate their ties and push for normalization.

External affairs minister S Jaishankar with Chinese vice president Han Zheng in Beijing.(X) | Hindustan Times

During his address in Beijing, Jaishankar emphasized that the current global situation demands “greater conversations between major economies” and that open dialogue between India and China is essential for regional and global stability. His comments came as both nations sought to redefine their post-Galwan diplomatic architecture, even as sensitive issues remain unresolved.

Meeting of Minds: Diplomacy in Action

In Beijing, Jaishankar met Chinese Vice President Han Zheng, where both leaders expressed cautious optimism. Han underlined the need for practical cooperation and mutual respect, while Jaishankar stressed that normalizing border conditions remained key to restoring full trust in the relationship. The conversation was marked by maturity, with both sides recognizing that stability at the border is fundamental to the overall health of the relationship.

Jaishankar pointed out that recent developments — including disengagement of troops from Depsang and Demchok following the Modi-Xi meeting at the Kazan Summit in 2024 — indicate a positive trend. This thaw is being supported by backchannel diplomacy, military-level talks, and sustained engagement on both economic and strategic fronts.

Unfreezing Engagements and Spiritual Diplomacy

One of the most widely welcomed developments during the visit was the reopening of the Kailash–Mansarovar Yatra after a five-year hiatus. This pilgrimage, deeply significant to Indian devotees, was suspended following both COVID-19 restrictions and deteriorating bilateral ties. Jaishankar described the resumption as “deeply appreciated by the Indian people,” adding a spiritual dimension to the diplomatic outreach.

India also extended its support to China’s chairmanship of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation, reflecting a willingness to cooperate on multilateral platforms despite lingering bilateral tensions. This gesture has been interpreted as a signal that India is prepared to balance strategic competition with practical collaboration.

Critical Talks: Trade, Borders, and the Tibet Question

Behind the diplomatic warmth, however, lay substantive discussions on several contentious issues. India raised serious concerns regarding China's curbs on critical mineral exports, particularly rare-earth elements essential for technology manufacturing. Jaishankar emphasized the need to avoid trade restrictions, warning that such steps could destabilize global supply chains.

Another major point of discussion was the situation along the Line of Actual Control (LAC). While troop disengagement in certain zones has occurred, tensions still simmer in areas like Demchok. India is clear that full restoration of normalcy in ties is not possible without complete de-escalation.

The Tibetan issue was also broached, especially China's rigid stance on the succession of the Dalai Lama. Beijing has called this a "thorn" in the relationship, while India remains firm that the succession process must respect the spiritual traditions of Tibetan Buddhists. Though neither side showed signs of shifting their core positions, the fact that the topic was discussed reflects a willingness to address deeper fault lines.

A New Chapter or a Tactical Pause?

This visit by Jaishankar may mark the beginning of a slow but meaningful diplomatic reset between Asia’s two biggest powers. However, analysts caution that structural issues — especially border sovereignty, trade imbalances, and Tibet — could flare up again if not carefully managed. While cooperation at the SCO, economic discussions, and cultural diplomacy are constructive, the test of this thaw will lie in sustained engagement and continued military de-escalation.

Nonetheless, the tone and substance of the visit suggest a recognition from both sides that prolonged hostility serves neither. By opening up high-level communication and focusing on mutual concerns, the two nations appear to be moving cautiously towards stabilizing one of Asia’s most complex bilateral relationships.

Conclusion: Dialogue as the Foundation for Peace

The importance of Jaishankar’s China visit extends beyond symbolic gestures. It reflects an understanding that in a volatile and multipolar world, regional peace and prosperity hinge on proactive diplomacy and mutual respect. While the scars of Galwan still linger, the steps taken since — disengagement, dialogue, and resumed cultural ties — hint at a shared willingness to move forward.

India and China, as civilizational states and modern powers, must continue to engage constructively. It is only through sustained dialogue, responsible diplomacy, and sensitive handling of issues like trade and borders that a durable peace can be built. As EAM Jaishankar rightly put it, “As neighbours and major economies, the exchange of views is not just important — it is essential.”

(Sources: Hindustan Times, Moneycontrol, India Today)