Beijing: China has stated that its long-running boundary dispute with India is “complicated” and will require time to resolve, while reaffirming its commitment to existing diplomatic communication mechanisms. The two Asian giants have been embroiled in a longstanding border dispute, particularly in the Ladakh region of disputed Jammu and Kashmir.
Chinese Foreign Ministry Spokeswoman Mao Ning, speaking at a regular press conference in Beijing, responded to recent remarks by Indian Defense Minister Rajnath Singh. Singh had called for a structured roadmap to de-escalate tensions and find a permanent border solution during his meeting with Chinese Defense Minister Dong Jun last week.
Mao Ning stated that Beijing remains open to continued dialogue, emphasizing that “the boundary question is complicated, and it takes time to settle it.” She highlighted the positive aspect that both countries have already established mechanisms at various levels for thorough communication.
She reiterated that China and India have in place a Special Representatives (SRs) mechanism and an agreement on the political parameters and guiding principles for the settlement of the China-India boundary question.
Mao Ning further affirmed, “China stands ready to maintain communication with India on issues including delimitation negotiation and border management, jointly keep the border areas peaceful and tranquil, and promote cross-border exchange and cooperation.” She expressed hope that India would work with China in the same direction to continue communication on relevant issues and jointly maintain peace and tranquility in the border areas.
The unresolved border dispute has led to periodic tensions and military standoffs, most notably the deadly clash in the Galwan Valley in June 2020. Despite numerous rounds of military and diplomatic talks since then, a comprehensive resolution remains elusive, with both sides maintaining significant troop deployments along the Line of Actual Control (LAC).
