“National security interests first…” EAM Jaishankar’s bold statement on China in Rajya Sabha

Dec 04, 2024

New Delhi, December 04 (ANI): EAM Dr S Jaishankar in Rajya Sabha said, “Finally, let me share with Hon’ble Members our expectation regarding the direction of our ties with China in the near future. Our relationship had progressed in many domains, but was obviously negatively affected by recent events. We are clear that the maintenance of peace and tranquillity in border areas is a pre-requisite for the development of our ties. In the coming days, we will be discussing both de-escalation as well as effective management of our activities in the border areas. The conclusion of the disengagement phase now allows us to consider other aspects of our bilateral engagement in a calibrated manner, keeping our national security interests first and foremost. In my recent meeting with FM Wang Yi, we reached an understanding that the Special Representatives and the Foreign Secretary level mechanisms will be convening soon. I thank the Hon’ble Members for their attention and am confident that the Government has their full support in addressing the complexities of this important relationship.”