India and China held discussions on the situation along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) during the 31st meeting of the Working Mechanism for Consultation & Coordination (WMCC) in Beijing. The two sides aimed to narrow down differences and find an early resolution to outstanding issues, reiterating the importance of peace and tranquility along the LAC for normalizing bilateral relations.
A dispute over the construction of a cattle fence along the India-Bangladesh border has escalated tensions between the two countries, highlighting the fragile state of their relationship following the recent overthrow of former Bangladeshi Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. The incident has raised concerns about cattle smuggling and the safety of Hindus in Bangladesh, further straining diplomatic ties.
India’s External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar highlighted the ongoing strained relationship between India and China at a Quad meeting in Japan. He emphasized that the tensions stem from China’s actions in 2020, when they deployed significant forces along the border, violating existing agreements. Despite this, Jaishankar stressed that India is not seeking third-party intervention, and both countries need to resolve the situation through dialogue.
Indian External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar has stated that India’s relationship with China is not in a good state, citing the unresolved border dispute that arose in 2020 as the primary cause. He ruled out any involvement of third parties in resolving the issue, emphasizing the need for direct dialogue between India and China. Jaishankar highlighted the importance of respecting the Line of Control (LoC) and existing agreements for the improvement of bilateral relations.
India and China have agreed to expedite the withdrawal of troops from their disputed border in a bid to de-escalate the long-running standoff. The agreement came during a meeting between the foreign ministers of both countries, who emphasized the need for a swift resolution of outstanding border issues.
India’s External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar met with his Chinese counterpart Wang Yi in Astana on the sidelines of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit. They discussed the early resolution of remaining issues in border areas and agreed to redouble efforts through diplomatic and military channels. Jaishankar also held meetings with UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres and his counterparts from Belarus, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan, discussing various global and regional issues.
Tensions between Benin and Niger have escalated once again, with Benin arresting five Nigerien nationals and accusing them of illegal entry. Niger has retaliated by accusing Benin of arresting employees of its oil company who were present at the port to oversee the loading of an oil shipment. The conflict centers around the port of Seme, which is a key point of entry for Niger’s crude oil exports. The dispute has dragged on since May, when Benin obstructed the shipment of oil, citing Niamey’s refusal to reopen its borders for trade. The blockade was eventually lifted following intervention from China, but Niger has maintained border closures after a military coup last July. Benin has since reopened its side of the border, but it has urged Niger to reciprocate. Niger has accused Benin of hosting French troops on its territory, which it claims are attempting to destabilize the country.
