Virtually every major breakthrough in relations between China and India had its roots in direct interaction by the top leaders. What matters most is that they have now institutionalized the dialogue.

An Indo-Pakistan conflict was prevented from turning into full blown war by China and other countries. However, the threat for future conflict between both countries lingers on.

Although the leaders of the SCO member-states emphasised that the Qingdao summit will be a new departure point for the organisation and agreed in principle that there is a need for a roadmap of actions, it still remains unclear what the SCO can really offer.

The two sides should demonstrate political resolve and find a fair and reasonable solution acceptable to both on the basis of strategic mutual trust, mutual understanding, and mutual accommodation.

The “informal summit” between Chinese President Xi Jinping and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi at the end of April will likely be extremely consequential. The “Chindian reset” could well be a new beginning that allows the most dynamic region in the world to claim a “pacific” new Asian Century.

The convergence of strategic threats to India, and the legacy of failed American policy in the region, have seen the resurgence of the once defunct Quadrilateral Security grouping. In doubling its efforts to serve as a regional counterweight to Chinese influence to ensure the sustained freedom of the seas and to stymie any Chinese efforts to gain control over crucial sea lanes to potentially block free trade, India would signal its leadership role.

Partners to work with India, Australia; delicate diplomacy needed for Beijing.

Both sides have stood down on Donglang, but China and India both have a lot to do to repair their strained relationship.

China tactically retreated in Doklam because, beyond declaring war on India, it was running out of options. But without the distraction of a looming party congress, China could seek revenge for Doklam at a time and place of its choosing. Next time, the PLA is unlikely to make the mistake of encroaching onto an area where India enjoys the military advantage.

India’s incursion into Donglang was no accident, but a carefully orchestrated attempt to challenge China. If India refuses to withdraw, the Chinese military must be prepared to teach it a harsh lesson, as it did in 1962.