External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar recently embarked on a significant diplomatic mission to Singapore and China, visiting both countries from July 13 to 15.
During his visit to Singapore, Jaishankar met with his counterpart and Singapore’s leadership, engaging in regular exchanges between the two nations. The discussions focused on furthering the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership between India and Singapore, which was elevated during Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit in September 2024. The partnership is built on shared history, trust, mutual respect, and extensive cooperation across various areas.
Jaishankar’s visit to China was centered around the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Council of Foreign Ministers’ Meeting in Tianjin. On the sidelines of the SCO meeting, he held bilateral meetings with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi. The discussions likely addressed pressing issues, including border disputes, trade, and security concerns. This meeting marked Jaishankar’s first trip to China since the 2020 military standoff along the Line of Actual Control in eastern Ladakh.
The visit aimed to stabilize ties between India and China, which have been strained since the border clash. Recent diplomatic efforts, including visits by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and NSA Ajit Doval, have sought to mend bilateral relations. The two countries have taken steps to improve ties, including reviving the Special Representatives mechanism and resuming the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra.
The SCO meeting provided a platform for Jaishankar to engage with regional leaders, discussing key international and regional issues. The bilateral talks with China were a crucial aspect of the visit, as both nations work towards improving relations and cooperation. With China’s Foreign Minister Wang Yi potentially visiting India later this month, the diplomatic momentum is expected to continue, paving the way for stronger ties between the two nations.
