Indian Foreign Minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar held high-level discussions with China's Wang Yi in Delhi on Friday, as the two Asian giants sought to navigate escalating trade tensions and unresolved border disputes.
The meeting, described as 'frank and constructive' by officials, comes amid growing economic friction, including India's recent imposition of tariffs on Chinese-made goods. Analysts suggest the talks represent an effort to prevent further deterioration in bilateral relations.
Trade Tensions Take Centre Stage
Economic issues dominated the agenda, with India pushing for greater market access for its pharmaceutical and agricultural exports to China. The discussions occurred against a backdrop of India's increasing trade deficit with China, which reached $101 billion in 2023.
'There's a clear recognition that economic decoupling isn't feasible,' said one diplomatic source familiar with the talks. 'Both sides are looking for pragmatic solutions that protect domestic industries while maintaining crucial trade flows.'
Border Disputes Remain Contentious
The ministers also addressed longstanding territorial conflicts along their 3,488-km shared border, where military standoffs have periodically flared in recent years. While no breakthrough was announced, both sides reaffirmed commitments to existing diplomatic mechanisms for dispute resolution.
Key outcomes from the meeting included:
- Agreement to enhance communication channels between foreign ministries
- Commitment to hold further trade negotiations within three months
- Plans for cultural exchange programs to improve people-to-people ties
The talks concluded without a joint statement, reflecting the complex nature of the relationship between the world's two most populous nations.
