India and China appear to be entering a tentatively improving phase in their strained relationship, with the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) stating that ties are “gradually moving in a positive direction.” The assessment comes days after the two countries held their first‑ever Corps Commander‑level talks in the eastern sector, at the Wacha–Damai border meeting points in Arunachal Pradesh — a region that has long been sensitive in bilateral military engagement.
MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said New Delhi and Beijing are continuing efforts to stabilise relations after years of tension along the Line of Actual Control (LAC). He emphasised that normalising ties is essential not only for diplomatic stability but also for strengthening people‑to‑people exchanges, which have been severely affected since the 2020 border standoff.
Jaiswal noted that visa‑related measures could help improve public interaction between the two nations, signalling that both sides may explore easing travel restrictions as part of confidence‑building efforts.
The latest military engagement follows a series of diplomatic and military‑level interactions, indicating a broader attempt to reduce friction. While the MEA’s tone was cautiously optimistic, officials stressed that progress must continue through sustained dialogue and adherence to existing border agreements.
The talks in the eastern sector are particularly significant because previous Corps Commander meetings were held only in the western sector (Ladakh). Expanding discussions to the eastern front suggests both sides are willing to address concerns across the entire LAC.