India-China Boundary Talks: Ajit Doval, Wang Yi Meet as New Delhi Set to Host 2027 Round

India and China have agreed to hold the 26th round of Special Representatives’ Talks on the boundary issue in India in 2027, following detailed discussions between National Security Adviser Ajit Doval and Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi in Beijing.

The 25th round of the talks was held in Beijing on Tuesday, with Doval and Wang leading the discussions as the Special Representatives of the two countries. During the meeting, Doval emphasised that maintaining peace and tranquillity along the India-China border is crucial for the continued development of bilateral relations.

The two sides held a candid and in-depth discussion on the boundary question, guided by the understanding reached between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping. They agreed to continue efforts towards a political settlement of the dispute while taking into account the long-term interests of both countries.

New Delhi also stressed the need for stronger strategic communication with Beijing, expanded mutually beneficial cooperation and greater coordination in multilateral forums. The discussions included improving management of border areas, exploring ways to resolve boundary-related issues and creating conditions for further progress in bilateral ties.

China’s Foreign Ministry said the two countries reaffirmed their commitment to resolving the boundary issue through the Special Representatives’ mechanism. Beijing said the talks would seek a fair, reasonable and mutually acceptable solution based on the political guiding principles agreed upon in 2005.

Next round to be held in India

The two countries agreed to continue boundary negotiations and strengthen border management mechanisms. They also agreed to maintain peace and tranquillity along the frontier and address differences through dialogue and consultation.

The 26th round of Special Representatives’ Talks will be hosted by India in 2027.

Wang Yi said maintaining a healthy and stable relationship between India and China was in the fundamental interests of both countries. He added that the relationship was also important for the wider Global South and the international community.

Wang described India and China as major developing countries, important neighbours and emerging economies, saying their relationship had strategic significance beyond bilateral ties.

During his visit, Doval also met Chinese Vice President Han Zheng. The two sides discussed maintaining peace and stability in border areas and strengthening bilateral cooperation.

The decision to hold the next round of talks in India underlines the continued importance of the Special Representatives’ mechanism as both countries seek to manage differences and pursue a peaceful resolution to the boundary dispute through sustained engagement.