NSA Ajit Doval Likely to Visit China for Crucial Border Talks: Indias National Security Adviser (NSA), Ajit Doval, is expected to visit China on December 18, 2024, to participate in Special Representative (SR) talks with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi. The meeting is aimed at addressing the ongoing border disputes between the two nations, particularly along the Line of Actual Control (LAC). This will be the first SR dialogue between India and China since December 2019, signaling a potential thaw in relations after years of heightened tensions.

The talks are expected to focus on resolving long-standing boundary issues, clarifying the definitions of the LAC, and establishing timelines for further military and diplomatic engagements. These discussions come in the wake of significant disengagement agreements achieved in October 2024, which marked a step forward in de-escalating tensions along the disputed border. The backdrop to these talks includes the military standoff that began in May 2020, escalating into a deadly clash in the Galwan Valley. This confrontation, which resulted in casualties on both sides, marked one of the most serious escalations between the two countries in decades. Since then, multiple rounds of military and diplomatic negotiations have been held to restore normalcy. The recent disengagement of troops has raised hopes for a more stable and cooperative relationship moving forward.

Indias External Affairs Minister, S. Jaishankar, recently addressed the Lok Sabha, emphasizing that India-China relations have remained abnormal since 2020 due to disruptions in peace and tranquility along the LAC caused by Chinese actions. He acknowledged that while there has been progress through diplomatic engagements, including troop disengagements, much work remains to fully normalize ties. He reiterated that peace in border areas is a prerequisite for the overall development of bilateral relations. Jaishankar also noted that recent de-escalation efforts have provided an opportunity to manage border issues more effectively. He highlighted that discussions on further disengagement and de-escalation would continue, as both nations remain committed to stabilizing the situation along the LAC. However, he stopped short of declaring a complete reset in relations, cautioning that restoring trust will require sustained efforts over time.

The anticipated visit by NSA Doval comes after a series of high-level interactions between Indian and Chinese officials. Notably, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping held discussions during the BRICS Summit in October 2024, where they agreed to reactivate dialogue mechanisms to address border disputes and improve bilateral ties. These engagements have created a framework for continuing dialogue, signaling a cautious optimism about the future of India-China relations. Observers view the upcoming SR talks as a critical opportunity for both nations to build on recent progress, avoid further confrontations, and pave the way for more constructive engagement on broader issues of mutual interest.

Disclaimer: This Image is taken from Indian Defense News.