KAZAN: Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping agreed to end the military standoff and resume patrolling along the eastern Ladakh border. The two leaders directed that special representatives Ajit Doval and Wang Yi discuss the next steps immediately. On Wednesday night, in a meeting that the world awaited, PM Modi met Chinese President XI after a gap of five years.

Both welcomed the border agreement reached two days ago. Xi Jinping stated he would work with India to implement the peace plan. In the discussion, Modi pointed out that mutual relations are important for global peace, stability and progress. "Relations will improve only if peace is maintained on the border. Mutual trust and respect should be the foundation of the relationship." Follow-up steps will be taken by strengthening strategic communication. It will be discussed at the level of foreign ministers and officials.

Modi also expressed India's support to China as the new chairman of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization. The two countries will strengthen cooperation in the BRICS platform as well. The Chinese president shed light on the immediate need for strengthening mutual communication and cooperation.

“As developing nations and as members of the Global South, we have a large role to play on the world stage. Differences should be resolved and development should be promoted. Both countries are on the path of modernization. We must be an example of unity and strength for developing countries. We should join hands to build a non-polarized world and democratize international relations.” Said Xi.

The last meeting between the two leaders took place in Mamallapuram, Tamil Nadu in 2019. Later, in May 2020, the Chinese Army violated the Line of Actual Control. The ensuing conflict strained relations.