Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi met with Indian National Security Advisor Ajit Doval on June 22-23, 2026, in New Delhi during the 16th BRICS National Security Advisors meeting to discuss the state of bilateral relations and border issues [1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7]. Both sides described the talks as constructive and forward-looking, noting progress toward the gradual normalization of ties between China and India [1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6].
Wang Yi emphasized the importance of respecting each other's core interests and properly managing sensitive issues, especially the border dispute. He said, "We must respect each other's core interests and properly handle sensitive issues. The border issue should be placed at an appropriate position to avoid affecting the overall bilateral relationship" [1, 3, 6, 7]. Doval spoke of the need for stable, predictable, and constructive ties, saying "the discussions were constructive and forward-looking," and that such relations "contribute to building of trust and better understanding between the two sides" [4].
The two officials agreed to expedite restoring dialogue mechanisms and to promote cooperation and exchanges in trade, finance, law enforcement, and media sectors [1, 2, 4, 5, 6]. Wang Yi highlighted that "China and India are partners, not competitors — this is the most important strategic consensus and provides crucial momentum for healthy and stable development" [3].
Relations between China and India had been severely damaged since border clashes in 2020, which caused a steep decline in bilateral ties [1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6]. However, since 2024, both countries have gradually moved toward improved relations through diplomatic and military dialogues [1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6]. Both governments view each other as cooperative partners and acknowledge their role as leading economies and populous nations critical to global South cooperation and multilateralism [1, 3, 4, 6].
China’s Foreign Ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun stated that the border situation is currently "generally stable" and both countries are preparing for the 25th round of border negotiations, showing their willingness to maintain peace along the border [7]. Both sides maintain communication channels to promote border peace and overall healthy bilateral relations [7].
Ajit Doval expressed India's willingness to continue viewing China ties strategically, work to implement leadership consensus, manage differences constructively, and pursue win-win outcomes [3, 4, 6]. The BRICS meeting included security advisors from China, India, Brazil, Russia, South Africa, and other members [1, 3, 4].
The next significant diplomatic event will be the 25th round of China-India border talks, which both sides are actively preparing for as they seek to maintain stability and improve bilateral relations [7].
