What happened?
On March 25, 2025, India and China held the 33rd meeting of the Working Mechanism for Consultation and Coordination on India-China Border Affairs (WMCC) in Beijing. The Indian delegation was led by Gourangalal Das, Joint Secretary (East Asia) at the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), while the Chinese side was represented by Hong Liang, Director General of the Boundary and Oceanic Affairs Department at the Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
The two sides comprehensively reviewed the situation along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) and discussed measures to maintain peace and stability. They agreed to strengthen diplomatic and military communication channels and explored proposals to implement decisions made during the 23rd meeting of the Special Representatives on the India-China Boundary Question held in December 2024. The delegations also exchanged views on resuming cross-border cooperation, including trans-border rivers management and the Kailash-Mansarovar Yatra.
Why it matters to India
The WMCC meeting is significant as it reflects ongoing efforts by India and China to stabilise border relations following recent tensions. Maintaining peace along the LAC is crucial for bilateral relations and regional stability. The resumption of the Kailash-Mansarovar Yatra holds cultural and religious importance for Indian pilgrims. Furthermore, agreements on cross-border cooperation, including river management, are vital for India’s water security. Strengthening diplomatic and military communication channels is key to preventing border incidents and de-escalating future tensions.