India, China discussed Mansarovar Yatra in 33rd WMCC meeting held in Beijing

On March 25, 2025, India and China convened the 33rd meeting of the Working Mechanism for Consultation and Coordination (WMCC) on India-China Border Affairs in Beijing. The discussions focused on key border issues, including the resumption of the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra and matters related to transboundary rivers. Emphasizing the importance of maintaining peace and stability along the border, both sides explored measures to enhance border management and foster cooperation.

Key Highlights

• Agreement on maintaining and strengthening diplomatic and military communication mechanisms.

• Resumption of cross-border cooperation, including trans-border river and Kailash Mansarovar Yatra discussions.

• Preparations for the next Special Representatives meeting, scheduled to be held in India later in 2025.

News from Archives

A meeting was held in Beijing between the Indian delegation, led by Gourangalal Das, Joint Secretary (East Asia), and the Chinese delegation, led by Hong Liang, Director General of the Boundary and Oceanic Affairs Department of the Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Representatives from the foreign affairs, defense, interior, and immigration departments of both countries participated in the discussions.

During the meeting, the delegations reviewed the prevailing situation along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) and emphasized that peace and stability in the border areas are essential for fostering bilateral relations. The discussions also centered on the implementation of agreements reached during the 23rd Special Representative (SR) meeting on the India- China boundary issue, held in December 2024, and reaffirmed the commitment of both nations to advancing measures for effective border management. 

The meeting also included discussions on resuming cross-border cooperation regarding trans-border rivers and the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra. With the ongoing disengagement of troops along the LAC and sustained efforts to uphold peace in the border regions, both sides acknowledged the significance of strengthening people-to-people exchanges.

The meeting concluded constructively, with both parties recognizing the importance of sustained dialogue and cooperation in border management. Additionally, both countries agreed to undertake substantial preparations for the next Special Representative (SR) meeting, which is scheduled to be hosted in India later in 2025. The forthcoming SR meeting is expected to serve as a crucial platform for further discussions on border management and confidence-building measures between the two nations.