Rajnath Singh Meets Chinese Defence Minister, Pushes for Border Dispute Resolution
At the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Defence Ministers’ Meeting in Qingdao, China, on June 27, 2025, India’s Defence Minister Rajnath Singh engaged in constructive discussions with Chinese Defence Minister Admiral Dong Jun. Singh underscored the importance of normalizing bilateral ties and resolving border disputes.
Indian Defence Minister Rajnath Singh attended the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Defence Ministers’ Meeting in Qingdao, China, marking his first visit to the country since the 2020 Galwan clash. In a significant bilateral meeting with Chinese Defence Minister Admiral Dong Jun, Singh emphasized normalizing India-China relations and resolving lingering border disputes along the Line of Actual Control (LAC). His call for completing the disengagement process and reducing tensions reflects India’s commitment to fostering stability in the region.
A Step Toward Bilateral Normalcy
During the talks, Singh highlighted the progress made since the October 2024 agreement, which facilitated disengagement in Depsang and Demchok. He stressed the need for a structured roadmap to ensure permanent peace, proposing the revival of established mechanisms like the Special Representatives dialogue. The meeting, described as constructive, also saw Singh express joy over the resumption of the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra, a symbolic step in improving people-to-people ties. He gifted Admiral Dong Jun a Madhubani painting, underscoring cultural goodwill.
Addressing Border Disputes
The India-China border tensions, sparked by the 2020 standoff, remain a critical issue. Singh urged both sides to avoid new complexities and focus on completing the disengagement process in eastern Ladakh. He emphasized mutual trust and respect as foundations for resolving disputes, aligning with India’s broader vision of regional stability. The discussions come amid efforts to restore pre-2020 patrolling arrangements, with local commanders continuing talks to maintain peace along the LAC.
Held talks with Admiral Don Jun, the Defence Minister of China, on the sidelines of SCO Defence Minitsers’ Meeting in Qingdao. We had a constructive and forward looking exchange of views on issues pertaining to bilateral relations.
— Rajnath Singh (@rajnathsingh) June 27, 2025
Expressed my happiness on restarting of the… pic.twitter.com/dHj1OuHKzE
SCO’s Broader Agenda
At the SCO meeting, Singh reiterated India’s zero-tolerance policy on terrorism, calling for unified action against cross-border threats. He refused to endorse a joint statement that omitted mention of the April 2025 Pahalgam attack, reflecting India’s firm stance on terrorism. The SCO, chaired by China in 2025, focused on regional security, counter-terrorism, and economic cooperation, with India advocating for multilateralism and mutual respect.
A Path to Stability
Singh’s visit signals cautious optimism for India-China relations. By prioritizing dialogue and de-escalation, both nations aim to build trust, though challenges like trade and connectivity issues persist. The meeting sets the stage for further diplomatic engagements, with hopes of a lasting resolution to border tensions.
