The United States expressed support for India’s efforts to mend strained relations with China, according to U.S. Deputy Secretary of State Kurt Campbell on Wednesday. Campbell acknowledged that Chinese leader Xi Jinping faces significant challenges in being flexible on territorial disputes.
Following Indian Foreign Minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar’s pledge to address border issues with China during his second consecutive term, Campbell, speaking at a Washington think tank, commented on the matter. “I think it’s important that whenever two countries can find common ground to reduce tensions, we should support that,” he remarked.
Campbell extended well wishes to India in its deliberations and emphasized the U.S.’s confidence in its bilateral relationship with India, affirming a commitment to its ongoing development. He disclosed plans to visit India alongside U.S. national security adviser Jake Sullivan the following week to advance mutual areas of coordination.
Despite acknowledging structural challenges in China-India relations, Campbell highlighted difficulties in resolving territorial disputes under Xi Jinping’s leadership. He noted that China’s rigidity on territorial issues hampers efforts towards reconciliation.
India and China share a 3,800 km border, which remains largely undefined and has been a focal point of tensions, including a significant military clash in July 2020. Despite occasional differences, Washington continues to cultivate its relationship with India.