India challenges China over border terrorism issues and Brahmaputra dam construction; asserts stance on Taiwan's political status
In a significant development, India and China are witnessing a thaw in their relations, with cautious normalization becoming increasingly evident. This comes in the lead-up to Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit, where the Strategic Dialogue has assumed "very special importance".
Last year, both nations made tangible progress on border disengagement, with patrols resuming at the contentious Demchok and Depsang areas, and disengagement already completed at Galwan, Gogra, Hot Springs, and both banks of Pangong Tso. This progress, according to National Security Advisor Ajit Doval, has led to an "upward trend" in bilateral ties over the past nine months, marked by peace and tranquillity along the Line of Actual Control.
During a meeting on Tuesday, Doval and Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi discussed the importance of maintaining peace and tranquillity on the border. Prime Minister Modi, in his turn, emphasized the need for stable, predictable, and constructive ties between the two nations.
The issue of cross-border terrorism, particularly India's accusations against Pakistan, was also discussed during the meetings. The Indian External Affairs Minister underlined the need for utmost transparency in this matter.
However, deep mistrust persists due to the 2020 border clashes and ongoing unresolved boundary issues. China has raised the issue of Taiwan during the meeting, but India has reaffirmed its position on the matter, stating that it maintains economic, technological, and cultural ties with Taiwan, and that this will continue.
Regarding the Brahmaputra river and dam construction, China has agreed to share hydrological data during emergency situations involving shared rivers, a positive step but not resolving broader water security issues related to the Brahmaputra. The Indian side raised concerns about China's mega dam construction in the lower reaches of the Yarlung Tsangpo (Brahmaputra river).
The meeting is seen as part of the broader effort to recalibrate relations that had sharply deteriorated following the deadly Galwan clashes in June 2020. The PM is scheduled to attend the SCO Summit, where he will express support for China's Presidency.
In summary, India-China relations are improving cautiously with more diplomatic engagement and economic cooperation, but strategic and border challenges, including river-sharing concerns, persist, and Taiwan is not currently a significant element in their dialogue.
[1] The Economic Times, "India-China ties show signs of thawing as Modi visit looms", August 19, 2025. [2] The Hindu, "India, China resume border talks amidst improving ties", August 19, 2025. [3] NDTV, "India, China hold talks amidst improving ties, border disengagement", August 19, 2025. [4] The Times of India, "China agrees to share hydrological data with India on Brahmaputra River", August 18, 2025.
