India’s External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar held a key meeting with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi on the sidelines of the ASEAN Regional Forum in Manila, delivering a clear message: peace along the border is non-negotiable for normal relations. Jaishankar said that a stable and cooperative relationship based on mutual respect, mutual interest, and mutual sensitivity could contribute to a multi-polar Asia and world. He welcomed recent steps such as the resumption of direct flights, the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra, and border trade, but made it clear that tranquility in border areas remains a prerequisite. The two ministers also discussed fair market access, trade balance, and supply chain predictability, signaling a cautious but engaged tone between the Asian giants.
Article and image source: singaporestar.com