India and China held their first bilateral consultations under the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) on April 16–17, 2026, marking a cautious step toward normalising relations after the easing of the eastern Ladakh military standoff in 2024.
According to the Ministry of External Affairs, both sides reviewed progress on decisions taken by SCO leaders and discussed the organisation’s future direction. They agreed to continue and deepen cooperation, particularly within the SCO framework.
The talks covered key areas such as security, trade, connectivity and people-to-people exchanges. The meeting is significant as it represents the first formal bilateral SCO engagement following years of strained ties due to border tensions.
India has reiterated that the SCO should remain focused on its core objectives, including combating terrorism, extremism and radicalisation, while also promoting balanced regional cooperation. At the same time, engagement through platforms like BRICS is helping both countries rebuild diplomatic communication.
The consultations reflect a gradual thaw in India-China relations, signalling cautious but steady efforts to restore dialogue and cooperation in regional and global forums.
