In a significant diplomatic stride, China and India have reached a ten-point consensus aimed at bolstering border management, fostering economic cooperation, and deepening people-to-people exchanges. This breakthrough, achieved during the 24th Round of Special Representatives Dialogue held in New Delhi on August 19, 2025, signals a renewed commitment to stabilizing bilateral relations after a period of heightened tensions. The dialogue, co-chaired by Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi and India's National Security Advisor Ajit Doval, addressed key areas crucial for mutual understanding and collaboration.
A central outcome is the establishment of new institutional mechanisms for border management, extending to the Eastern and Middle Sectors, complementing the existing framework for the Western Sector. This move is designed to enhance communication and de-escalation protocols along the shared frontier. Furthering efforts towards a peaceful resolution of the boundary question, an Expert Group will be formed to focus on "Early Harvest" boundary delimitation, a step that signifies a pragmatic approach to addressing long-standing territorial discussions. The consensus also includes agreements on military de-escalation and the implementation of robust communication protocols to prevent misunderstandings.
Economically, the agreement marks a positive turn with the reopening of border trade markets and the planned resumption of direct flights between the two nations. These measures are expected to facilitate business travel, student exchanges, and family connections, thereby rebuilding trust and fostering closer ties. Additionally, the Indian pilgrimage to Mount Kailash and Lake Manasarovar will be expanded, enriching cultural and spiritual exchanges. Cooperation on trans-border rivers, including China's commitment to share vital hydrological information during emergencies, underscores a shared responsibility for regional environmental stewardship. The agreement also touches upon visa facilitation and enhanced media exchanges, aiming to create a more open and connected environment.
This diplomatic achievement follows a complex history in Sino-Indian relations, marked by events such as the 2020 Galwan Valley clash. The current accord, however, reflects a strategic imperative for both countries to navigate a dynamic global economic landscape. The resumption of direct flights and pilgrimages, suspended since early 2020 due to the pandemic and strained relations, highlights a deliberate effort to move past recent difficulties.
Notably, the agreement has also brought attention to the Lipulekh Pass, with Nepal lodging a protest regarding trade through the region. India has reiterated its historical position on the matter, emphasizing that border trade through Lipulekh commenced in 1954 and has been ongoing for decades, with recent disruptions attributed to the pandemic. India maintains that Nepal's territorial claims are not supported by historical facts. This ten-point consensus represents a significant diplomatic effort to foster stability and cooperation, acknowledging the mutual interest in a strong bilateral relationship for regional peace and global prosperity. The commitment to dialogue and the establishment of new mechanisms are seen as crucial steps in managing differences while pursuing shared opportunities.