Mon Jun 30 18:36:49 UTC 2025: **Summary:**

Indian Defence Minister Rajnath Singh met with his Chinese counterpart, Admiral Dong Jun, on the sidelines of the SCO Defence Ministers’ Meeting in Qingdao, China. Singh proposed a structured roadmap to de-escalate border tensions and rejuvenate border demarcation mechanisms. China acknowledged the complexity of the border dispute, stating it will take time to settle, but expressed readiness for discussions on delimitation and maintaining peace. Both sides emphasized the importance of communication and cooperation. Singh also addressed the Pahalgam terror attack and India’s Operation Sindoor.

**News Article:**

**India and China Discuss Border Dispute, Seek Peaceful Resolution**

**Qingdao, China – July 1, 2025:** Defence Minister Rajnath Singh met with Chinese Defence Minister Admiral Dong Jun in Qingdao on June 26, urging a structured approach to resolving the complex border dispute between the two nations. The meeting took place on the sidelines of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Defence Ministers’ Meeting.

Singh proposed a roadmap comprising steps to de-escalate tensions along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) and revitalize existing mechanisms to demarcate the borders. While acknowledging the complicated nature of the issue, China expressed its willingness to engage in discussions on border delimitation and maintain peace in the region.

“The boundary question is complicated, and it takes time to settle it,” said Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning, adding that both countries have established communication mechanisms at various levels. “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.”

Singh emphasized the need for good neighborly relations and urged action to bridge the trust deficit stemming from the 2020 eastern Ladakh standoff. He also briefed Admiral Dong on the Pahalgam terror attack and India’s Operation Sindoor aimed at dismantling terrorist networks in Pakistan.

The meeting signals ongoing efforts by both India and China to improve relations following an understanding reached last October to end the military standoff along the LAC. The 23rd round of Special Representatives talks, led by National Security Adviser Ajit Doval and Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi, took place in December 2024. While the border issue remains a significant challenge, both sides appear committed to dialogue and maintaining peace in the region.

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