China’s Foreign Minister Wang Yi has said Beijing is prepared to “work with India” to strengthen bilateral ties and “consolidate positive momentum”, following his meeting with External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar on the sidelines of ASEAN‑related engagements in Manila. The remarks come amid cautious efforts by both nations to rebuild trust after years of tension along the Line of Actual Control (LAC).
According to Chinese state media, Wang Yi urged both countries to keep the “well‑being of humanity in mind”, act responsibly as major powers, and deepen coordination in regional and international affairs. He also called for advancing multipolarity and greater democracy in global governance, signalling Beijing’s desire to position India as a partner in shaping broader geopolitical frameworks.
The discussions touched on maintaining high‑level exchanges, expanding cooperation in economy, trade, media, and cultural sectors, and managing sensitive issues carefully. China emphasised implementing the common understandings reached by leaders of both nations in previous summits.
Jaishankar, however, underscored India’s core concerns. He raised the issue of fair market access, trade imbalances, and supply‑chain predictability, stressing that addressing these economic challenges is essential for repairing ties. India has long argued that China’s restrictive market practices and widening trade deficit hinder meaningful progress in the relationship.
The meeting follows New Delhi’s firm message earlier this week that border peace is a prerequisite for normal ties — a stance India continues to maintain despite China’s calls for compartmentalising the relationship.