India-China Border Peace Talks Signal Diplomatic Progress

India and China held the 34th round of the Working Mechanism for Consultation and Coordination (WMCC) on Border Affairs in New Delhi on July 23. The meeting comes amid a gradual improvement in diplomatic ties between the two Asian giants following years of tension.

The Indian delegation was led by Gourangalal Das, Joint Secretary (East Asia), while the Chinese side was represented by Hong Liang, Director General of the Boundary and Oceanic Affairs Department. The two sides expressed satisfaction over the general peace along the Line of Actual Control (LAC), acknowledging that the situation has steadily improved.

In a significant development, India resumed issuing tourist visas to Chinese nationals. This move, described by China as “positive,” is expected to facilitate greater people-to-people exchanges and reflects growing mutual trust. China’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs noted that easing travel between the two countries is “widely beneficial.”

The meeting focused on maintaining diplomatic and military-level communication to avoid escalation along the disputed border. Both sides discussed preparations for the next round of Special Representatives’ Talks, which are likely to take place later this year.

This round of WMCC builds on the momentum of recent high-level meetings, including the 23rd Special Representatives’ Dialogue and the 33rd WMCC round in Beijing earlier this year. External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar’s recent meeting with President Xi Jinping also underscored India’s intent to stabilize relations.

India’s measured approach post-Galwan reflects its emphasis on constructive engagement without compromising national security. By continuing regular talks through established frameworks like WMCC, both nations aim to normalize relations, strengthen border management, and ensure peace in sensitive regions.

The resumption of tourism visas and planned high-level diplomatic visits are positive signs of thawing relations. As geopolitical challenges grow, sustained cooperation between India and China will be critical in shaping peace and stability across Asia.