“Partners, Not Rivals,” Says Wang Yi At BRICS NSA Conference 2026 After Talks With Doval

Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi said it is “imperative to respect each other’s core interests” as India and China moved a step forward in cautious diplomatic engagement during his meeting with National Security Adviser Ajit Doval on the sidelines of the BRICS NSA Conference 2026 in New Delhi.

Wang Yi said, “India and China should view each other as partners rather than rivals,” stressing that this understanding forms an important strategic consensus between the two countries. He added that both sides must “take concrete actions” to implement consensus reached by their leaders and ensure that sensitive issues do not derail overall relations.

He further stated that the border issue “should be placed in an appropriate position so it does not affect the overall development of bilateral ties,” while urging the resumption and strengthening of dialogue mechanisms across sectors including trade, finance, law enforcement and media.

National Security Adviser Ajit Doval, who is also the Indian Special Representative on the boundary question, said the discussions were “constructive and forward-looking.” He said, “Stable, predictable and constructive bilateral relations contribute to trust and better understanding between the two sides.”

According to official briefings, both sides reviewed progress in the normalisation process and noted incremental movement in ties following years of strain after the Galwan Valley clashes in 2020 .

Wang also said India is an “important neighbour of China,” adding that bilateral relations have “returned to the track of recovery and improvement.” He emphasised the need to promote cooperation from a global perspective, particularly among Global South countries.

Both sides reaffirmed the importance of maintaining peace and tranquillity along the border and continuing structured dialogue under the Special Representatives mechanism.

India’s External Affairs Ministry spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal also said the talks were “constructive and forward-looking,” reinforcing that both countries remain engaged in rebuilding trust and managing differences through dialogue.