Indian Leaders Prepare for Crucial SCO Talks in China
Indian Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and National Security Advisor Ajit Doval are scheduled to visit China later this month to participate in the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) meetings. This upcoming engagement marks their first face-to-face discussions with Chinese counterparts since escalating tensions following the India-Pakistan flare-up in May.
Context Behind the High-Level Visit
These meetings come amid ongoing efforts to defuse strained India-China relations that have persisted since the 2020 border standoff in eastern Ladakh. Singh and Doval’s visit signals a renewed push to restore stability and confidence along the border and enhance bilateral cooperation within the SCO framework.
Details of the SCO Meetings
- NSA Ajit Doval is expected to be in China from June 24 to 26.
- Defence Minister Rajnath Singh will likely visit Qingdao between June 25 and 27.
During these sessions, both Indian officials will also encounter Pakistani delegates, including Defence Minister Khwaja Asif and NSA Lt Gen Asim Malik, highlighting the complex regional dynamics at play.
Recent Military Developments
The timing of this diplomatic engagement follows India’s recent Operation Sindoor, a military response to the Pahalgam terror attack. Indian forces successfully intercepted advanced foreign weaponry reportedly used by Pakistan, including Chinese PL-15 missiles and Turkish kamikaze drones, underscoring the volatility in the region.
Ongoing Efforts to Strengthen India-China Relations
This visit builds upon earlier diplomatic advances. In December of last year, NSA Doval met with Chinese officials in Beijing, resulting in a six-point agreement to restore key aspects of cooperation:
- Restarting the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra, paused amid heightened tensions.
- Collaboration on managing trans-border rivers.
- Resuming trade through the Nathula pass.
Since then, both sides have monitored the progress of a disengagement agreement signed in October 2024, which has led to incremental restoration of patrolling rights and grazing access along the border regions.
Broader Diplomatic Engagements
In addition to these meetings, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping held a brief discussion on the sidelines of the BRICS Summit in Russia, reflecting consistent efforts at dialogue despite challenges.
Focus Areas for the Upcoming Visit
With this being Singh’s first visit and Doval’s second in the post-standoff landscape, the talks are anticipated to concentrate on:
- De-escalation of troops along the India-China border.
- Confidence-building measures to prevent future conflicts.
- Resuming direct flights between the two countries to boost connectivity.
- Relaxing visa restrictions for Chinese nationals visiting India.
- Enhancing data sharing on important rivers such as the Brahmaputra.
The gradual resumption of the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra further reinforces the thaw in bilateral relations, setting a positive tone ahead of the SCO leaders’ summit in Tianjin, China.
Looking Ahead to the SCO Summit
The upcoming meetings and subsequent SCO summit are viewed as pivotal platforms for India and China to recalibrate their relationship within the broader Eurasian security architecture. Both nations appear committed to grounded discussions aiming to mitigate conflict risks and foster collaborative growth.
