Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, during his visit to the Chinese port city of Qingdao, held bilateral talks with China’s Defence Minister Admiral Dong Jun on the sidelines of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Defence Ministers’ meet.
The two leaders had what Singh described as a “constructive and forward-looking exchange of views”, focusing on improving relations between India and China. In a statement shared on X, Singh emphasised that both countries must “maintain positive momentum and avoid adding new complexities” in the bilateral relationship.
During the meeting, Singh also presented Dong Jun with a traditional Madhubani painting, symbolising India’s cultural heritage. The gift reflected the Defence Minister’s effort to combine diplomacy with cultural goodwill.
This meeting is part of a broader thaw in India-China relations after a prolonged period of military tension in eastern Ladakh. A major breakthrough came in 2024, when both sides completed disengagement from the sensitive Depsang and Demchok regions. Since then, diplomatic engagement has resumed at high levels.
Notably, Singh expressed joy over the resumption of the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra, suspended since 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The sacred pilgrimage will resume from June 30, 2025, with the first group crossing into China via Lipulekh Pass on July 10, and the final group returning by August 22.
Earlier this week, National Security Advisor Ajit Doval also met Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi in Beijing, calling for stronger bilateral ties and enhanced people-to-people engagement.
The developments suggest a cautious yet visible effort by both countries to stabilise their relationship through defence diplomacy and cultural exchange.
