Paper: GS – II, Subject: International Relations, Topic: India and Its Neighborhod, Issue: India – China Relations.
Context:
The recent meeting between Indian External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar and Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi.
- Focusing on the progress made in India-China relations, the crucial need for border de-escalation, and the challenges that lie ahead.

Key Takeaways:
Unsettled Borders: Along the 3,488-kilometer Line of Actual Control (LAC), the lack of mutual agreement between the two countries has led to multiple military clashes.
- The recent clashes include Doklam standoff in 2017 and the Galwan Valley clash in 2020.
Trade imbalance: India’s trade deficit with China rose to USD 85 billion (2023-24) against USD 83.2 billion (2022-23).
- India is also dependent on China for Semiconductors, Pharma APIs etc. Currently, China is the largest trading partner of India with bilateral trade of USD 118.4 billion (2023- 2024).

The String of Pearls: The String of Pearls refers to a geopolitical and strategic framework in which China is developing a network of commercial and military assets (or “pearls”) along the Indian Ocean Region (IOR) to secure its energy routes and expand its influence. Network of Ports and Bases: China has invested in and developed port facilities in countries like Pakistan (Gwadar), Sri Lanka (Hambantota), Bangladesh (Chittagong), and Myanmar (Sittwe and Coco Islands), and has a military base in Djibouti. India’s Response: “Necklace of Diamonds” strategy A multi-pronged approach often referred to as the “Necklace of Diamonds” Strategy includes: Developing Naval Bases and Access: E.g., Iran (Chabahar), Oman, Singapore (Changi Naval Base), etc. Strengthening Regional Partnerships: Act East Policy and enhanced ties with ASEAN, Japan, and Australia. Strategic partnerships through Quad and Indo-Pacific initiatives. SAGAR (Security and Growth for All in the Region) & MAHASAGAR India’s vision for maritime cooperation. |
Significance of Stable India – China Relations:

By addressing these challenges through dialogue, cooperation, and adherence to agreements, India and China can build a more stable and mutually beneficial relationship. The commitment to zero tolerance for terrorism is a shared goal that can further strengthen cooperation between the two countries.
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