Border row hinders normalization of India-China relations: S Jaishankar

New Delhi: External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar expressed hope for a resolution to the ongoing border issues with China, stating that peace and tranquility at the border are essential for normal bilateral ties.

In an interview with PTI, Jaishankar highlighted that the remaining issues mainly revolved around "patrolling rights and patrolling abilities."

Responding to queries about the expected timeline for resolving the border standoff, Jaishankar clarified that Prime Minister Narendra Modi's recent comments provided a broader perspective on the matter. He emphasized the importance of stable relations between neighboring countries, noting that the current situation with China is abnormal due to disturbances at the border.

"Diplomacy is a work of patience," Jaishankar remarked, stressing the ongoing discussions between India and China to address the issues. He underscored the need to resolve these issues for the relationship to return to normal.

While acknowledging the increase in bilateral trade volume with China, Jaishankar emphasized the logical inconsistency of normalizing relations amid border tensions. He likened the situation to having an unfriendly presence at the front door, indicating the impracticality of acting as if everything is normal under such circumstances.

The deterioration in India-China relations followed the Galwan Valley clash in June 2020, marking a significant escalation in tensions between the two countries. Diplomatic and military negotiations have been focused on restoring the status quo ante along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) in eastern Ladakh.

India has intensified its military presence along the frontier with China, particularly in the Sikkim and Arunachal Pradesh sectors, following the clashes. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh expressed optimism about the ongoing talks, anticipating a resolution to the lingering border row.