India and China Agree on "Fair and Reasonable" Boundary Settlement

Indian President K R Narayanan and Chinese President Jiang Zemin held extensive talks during Narayanan's week-long state visit, focusing on a fair and reasonable settlement of their long-standing boundary dispute. The two leaders laid the groundwork for a constructive partnership, emphasizing mutual understanding, adjustment, and accommodation. Key issues, including nuclear weapons and Taiwan, were sidestepped, while the Dalai Lama and 17th Karmapa's presence in India were discussed.

Key Takeaways:

• India and China agree on a "fair and reasonable" settlement of their boundary dispute, with the establishment of an Eminent Persons Group (EPG) to enhance bilateral ties.
• Indian President K R Narayanan and Chinese President Jiang Zemin held intensive talks during Narayanan's week-long state visit, focusing on key issues like the border dispute and regional concerns.
• The two leaders evaded discussion on nuclear weapons and Taiwan, instead choosing to focus on cooperation and partnership in the 21st century.
• Jiang Zemin raised concerns about the Dalai Lama's presence in India, but Narayanan reassured Beijing that he would not be allowed to engage in political activities.
• Narayanan assured Zemin that India's policy on Tibet remained unchanged, adhering to the five principles of peaceful coexistence.
• China expressed opposition to terrorism, while India emphasized the need for a peaceful and diplomatic solution to disputes, as suggested by the EPG proposal.

Statistics:

• The talks between Narayanan and Zemin lasted for 2.5 hours.
• The EPG will work to enhance overall bilateral ties, including a "fair and reasonable" settlement of the border dispute.
• India and China have a long-standing boundary dispute, with 4,056 kilometers (2,515 miles) of undefined border.

Sources:

• Asia Pulse., "India, China to Set Up Eminent Group on Border Issue,", 29 May.