Image Credit: X account @SpokespersonMoD
Rajnath Singh Tells China to Avoid Adding New Complexities
In a key bilateral engagement on the sidelines of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Defence Ministers’ meeting in Qingdao, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh conveyed a firm message to his Chinese counterpart, Admiral Don Jun. Stressing the need for stability, Singh urged China to preserve the positive momentum in bilateral ties and “avoid adding new complexities in the bilateral relationship.”
The meeting was significant, marking Singh’s first official visit to China since the deadly Galwan Valley clashes in 2020 that severely strained India-China relations. With border disengagement measures still under implementation in certain friction points along the Line of Actual Control (LAC), the Indian side emphasised the need for both sides to maintain the diplomatic and military dialogue and ensure peace prevails in border areas.
Resumption of Confidence-Building Measures
During the meeting, Singh also welcomed China’s move to allow the resumption of the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra via Lipulekh Pass, a sacred pilgrimage route that had remained suspended for nearly six years due to pandemic restrictions and rising bilateral tensions. The yatra is scheduled to resume from July 10 and is being seen as a symbolic gesture of goodwill.
In a gesture of cultural diplomacy, Singh presented Admiral Don Jun with a traditional Madhubani painting from Bihar, underscoring India’s intent to build ties not just through military dialogue, but also through cultural and people-to-people engagement.
Stronger Dialogue and Border Management
Singh called for the development of a structured roadmap for de-escalation along the LAC, stressing that it was time for “permanent action on the ground” to resolve pending issues. He noted that managing the boundary situation remains the most crucial factor in maintaining long-term peace and ensuring a broader diplomatic thaw.
While acknowledging the incremental progress made since 2023 in disengagement and communications, Singh underlined that both sides must remain cautious not to undo the gains by introducing new irritants. The emphasis was on restraint, mutual respect, and strengthening institutional mechanisms for crisis management.
Wider Strategic Context
The India-China meeting took place against the backdrop of a broader SCO framework where India also raised concerns about terrorism in the region. Notably, India chose not to endorse the final SCO defence communique, reportedly due to the absence of explicit references to terrorism, particularly in light of recent cross-border incidents such as the attack in Pahalgam.
India’s message to China was clear: focus on rebuilding trust, avoid provocation, and deliver concrete actions that reinforce peace along the contested border. By highlighting both cooperation opportunities and red lines, India is seeking a calibrated, interest-driven relationship with its northern neighbour.
