India, China look to advance border delimitation in Beijing talks - The Hindu

**India, China look to advance border delimitation in Beijing talks**

New Delhi and Beijing have taken a fresh diplomatic step toward resolving their long‑standing boundary dispute after Indian National Security Adviser Ajit Doval met with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi in Beijing on Monday. The two officials, flanked by senior officials from their respective foreign ministries, held a closed‑door dialogue that focused on “advancing border delimitation” and moving toward a “political settlement of the boundary question,” as described in statements released by the Indian Ministry of External Affairs. Both sides agreed that a stable and mutually acceptable demarcation of the Line of Actual Control (LAC) is in their long‑term strategic interests and would underpin broader cooperation.

Chinese media, citing the foreign ministry’s briefing, underscored the notion of a “package solution” that would address the boundary issue alongside other bilateral concerns, including trade, connectivity, and regional security. The Times of India reported that Beijing stressed the need for a comprehensive framework rather than a piecemeal approach, while ThePrint highlighted that Chinese outlets portrayed Doval’s visit as a sign of India’s willingness to engage constructively. Nonetheless, the Deccan Herald noted that no formal settlement framework was unveiled during the talks, and the parties left the meeting without a concrete timetable for finalizing the delimitation process.

Analysts see the engagement as a cautious but positive development after years of sporadic skirmishes along the LAC. By emphasizing “peace and tranquility” and a coordinated political settlement, both capitals appear intent on reducing the risk of accidental escalation while preserving the strategic autonomy each side seeks. The outcome of the Doval‑Wang dialogue could pave the way for confidence‑building measures, such as joint patrolling and clearer mapping of the LAC, which would be critical for maintaining stability on the world’s most contested frontier.