Rajnath Singh Urges Border Clarity, Trust-Building in Key Meet with Chinese Defence Minister Dong Jun

By A Staff Reporter

New Delhi — Defence Minister Rajnath Singh held a high-stakes bilateral meeting with Chinese Defence Minister Admiral Dong Jun, where he underscored the urgent need for a permanent resolution to the ongoing border issues and proposed the revitalisation of existing mechanisms for effective border demarcation and management.

According to the Ministry of Defence, Singh stressed that improved border management and mutual trust are essential to foster “good neighbourly conditions” that could unlock mutual benefits and enhance cooperation for regional and global stability.

Referring to the lingering tensions since the 2020 border standoff, Singh called on China to take concrete actions on the ground to bridge the trust deficit and restore normalcy in bilateral relations. The comments reflect India’s clear position that peace at the borders is a prerequisite for broader engagement.

In a positive development, Singh welcomed the resumption of the Kailash Manasarovar Yatra after a five-year pause, highlighting it as a symbol of people-to-people contact and regional goodwill.

He also briefed Admiral Dong on the terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Jammu & Kashmir on April 22, 2025, and India’s subsequent Operation Sindoor, aimed at dismantling terror networks operating from across the border in Pakistan. He reiterated India’s firm commitment to counterterrorism and regional security.