After years of tension since the 2020 Galwan Valley clash, India and China resumed high-level border talks in April 2025 under the Working Mechanism for Consultation and Coordination (WMCC). This is the first such meeting since mid-2023, and it signals a tentative thaw in relations.
The talks were held in Beijing and involved senior military and diplomatic officials. Key issues included disengagement in Eastern Ladakh, reducing troop presence along friction points, and restoring pre-2020 status quo. Both sides expressed intent to maintain peace while continuing dialogue.
India reiterated the importance of respecting the Line of Actual Control (LAC) and avoiding unilateral changes. China, in turn, sought to expand trade ties and called for de-escalation.
While the dialogue is welcome, skepticism remains. On-ground reports show ongoing infrastructure buildup by both armies. Experts believe that while full disengagement is unlikely soon, these talks help avoid conflict escalation and improve strategic communication.
These developments come as both countries also face domestic economic challenges and global diplomatic realignments. A peaceful border could unlock broader cooperation in BRICS, SCO, and climate agreements — but mutual trust remains fragile.
