New Delhi, Mar 26: India's External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar has expressed cautious optimism about the gradual improvement in bilateral ties between India and China.

Since October 2024, the two nations have been working to rebuild their relationship, which faced severe strain following the 2020 border standoff in Ladakh. The standoff, sparked by Chinese military actions, led to the most significant military tensions between the countries in decades, with a disregard for prior agreements and protocols.

Speaking at an Asia Society event, Jaishankar highlighted that both sides are addressing the damage caused by the 2020 incident through continued negotiations and confidence-building measures.

The External Affairs Minister cited October's agreement on patrolling arrangements in the Depsang Plains and Demchok as a step forward. These agreements follow earlier disengagements at other points along the Line of Actual Control (LAC), reached through diplomatic and military discussions.

Jaishankar underscored the importance of ensuring that differences do not escalate into disputes and that competition does not lead to conflict.

Reflecting on the period from 2020 to 2025, he noted it did not serve the interests of either nation and emphasized that restoring peace and tranquillity in border areas is essential for the broader relationship.

The Minister reiterated India’s commitment to a peaceful resolution of border disputes, while maintaining a realistic view of the challenges ahead. He expressed hope that rebuilding trust would pave the way for a more stable and mutually beneficial partnership between the two Asian powers.

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