Indian Foreign Minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar began discussions with his Chinese counterpart Wang Yi in New Delhi on Monday, emphasising that positive progress in their relationship could only occur if peace is maintained along their shared border.

Wang, who arrived in India for a two-day visit, is set to hold the 24th round of border talks with Indian National Security Adviser Ajit Doval and meet Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Jaishankar highlighted the importance of addressing border issues, stressing that peace and stability in the border regions are essential for any positive developments in bilateral ties.

Jaishankar also noted the need for both countries to withdraw troops stationed along their disputed western Himalayan border, where tensions have flared since the deadly clash in 2020.

"Having seen a difficult period in our relationship, Excellency, our two nations now seek to move ahead. This requires a candid and constructive approach from both sides. In that endeavour, we must be guided by the three mutuals: mutual respect, mutual sensitivity and mutual interest. Differences must not become disputes, nor competition conflict," explained Jaishankar.

The Chinese foreign minister said exchanges and dialogue at all levels between both countries had been gradually restored and bilateral relations were returning to cooperation.

Wang also urged both powers to see each other as “partners and opportunities, not rivals or threats,” and called for a “correct strategic understanding.”

Wang's visit comes just days before Modi’s first trip to China in seven years to attend the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation summit, which also includes Russia.

Relations between India and China began to improve in October after a key agreement to reduce military tensions along the Himalayan border, following talks between Chinese President Xi Jinping and Modi in Russia. The two countries' ties had soured after the 2020 border clash, which resulted in the deaths of 20 Indian soldiers and four Chinese soldiers.

Meanwhile, on Tuesday (19 August) China lifted curbs on the export of rare earth magnets to India, local Indian media reported.

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