India and China engaged in discussions on resuming cross-border cooperation, including the Kailash-Mansarovar Yatra and trans-border river management, at the 33rd meeting of the Working Mechanism for Consultation and Coordination (WMCC) on border affairs held in Beijing on Tuesday.
Progress Since Border Tensions
The meeting aimed to advance efforts to normalize bilateral relations after an agreement last October to end the military standoff in Ladakh. It also followed Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s remarks emphasizing the importance of India-China cooperation for global stability.
Resuming Kailash-Mansarovar Pilgrimage
Officials discussed the early resumption of the Kailash-Mansarovar Yatra, which was last conducted in 2020. Both sides are working on finalizing the modalities for its resumption. India is also keen on restarting the exchange of hydrological data on trans-border rivers, considering China’s plans for hydropower projects on the Brahmaputra River.
Strengthening Border Mechanisms
The WMCC explored measures to enhance border management and strengthen existing diplomatic and military mechanisms to maintain peace and tranquillity along the Line of Actual Control (LAC). The two sides also agreed to prepare for the next meeting of the Special Representatives, which is expected to be held in India later this year.
Key Participants and Future Steps
The Indian delegation was led by Gourangalal Das, Joint Secretary (East Asia) in the Ministry of External Affairs, while the Chinese delegation was headed by Hong Liang, Director General of the Boundary and Oceanic Affairs Department of China’s foreign ministry.
Historical Context and Diplomatic Engagements
Following the 2020 Galwan Valley clash, relations between the two nations deteriorated. However, after several rounds of diplomatic and military talks, forces were withdrawn from key friction points. Recent meetings between leaders of both nations have focused on rebuilding ties and resolving border disputes.
