Dialogue with China
With China our relations have happily taken a turn for the better. For the last fifteen years the two countries have had no ambassadors in each other's capital. We had been feeling for some time that, even though our missions had been manned by comparatively senior diplomatists and there was no interruption in our diplomatic relations even during periods of intense strain, it would be useful to both countries to be represented at the level of ambassadors. Such a step by itself would not, we know fully well, lead to any immediate solution of problems or to the removal or irritants. But the on-going diplomatic dialogue could assume a more meaningful character. Perhaps a new atmosphere, a little more friendly could be created in which it might be possible to have a realistic discussion on our differences.
We are happy that this development has taken place and we are hopeful that this will be followed by further constructive steps for improving relations in commercial, cultural and other fields. India and China are the two biggest Asian countries with a long history of cultural links and friendly contacts. The two countries also have had the experience of confrontation, hostility and conflict. It is necessary for both sides to exercise patience and understanding to explore the avenues of bilateral complimentarily. It is still too early to say how successful this important diplomatic initiative is going to be but we are happy that in this crucial sector of our diplomatic interest, we have succeeded in reducing tension to some extent and preparing the ground for improvement.
Friendship with Neighbours
To put India's policy towards her neighbours in perspective, these moves towards China and Pakistan should be seen as only a part of the deliberate pattern of friendship and accommodation with other countries close to us. Some of the most significant, if not also spectacular, successes in our diplomatic activity have been registered in recent years in solving minor problems well in time with our other neighbours. With Burma we have almost completed the demarcation of the border. With Indonesia and Sri Lanka, we have concluded maritime boundary agreements. With our northern neighbours, Nepal and Bhutan, our relations continue to be extremely friendly and co-operative.