Stressing on the importance of bilateral relations, China has said that the border issue with India will not be linked with the growth of overall ties with India.
“The border issue between China and India shall not be linked with bilateral relations,” said Zhao Lijian, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson, at a press briefing on Friday.
His remarks came after Indian External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, on Thursday said that the relationship between India and China were at a ”crossroads” and choices made by the two countries will have “profound repercussions” for the entire world.
“Experiences of the past have taught us the importance of stabilising our relationship (with China) even while adjusting to changes. From that, we can seek proper guidance that will be to the benefit of both nations,” the external affairs minister stated.
Zhao acknowledged that S Jaishankar’s remarks showcase the significance India attaches to its relations with China and stressed that the border issue shall not be linked with bilateral relations.
“This is an important lesson learned through the two countries’ efforts over the past decades to keep our ties moving forward,” the Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson said.
He further added that China hopes India will work with it to properly manage differences, promote practical cooperation and bring bilateral relations back on the right track.
On January 24, India and China agreed to push for an early disengagement of the frontline troops in eastern Ladakh during the ninth round of the China-India Corps Commander Level Meeting held on the Chinese side of the Moldo-Chushul border meeting point.
The joint press release issued by Defence Ministry on January 25 said the two sides had a candid and in-depth exchange of views on disengagement along the Line of Actual Control in the Western Sector of China-India border areas.
Advertisement
Author
