Geneva: India's External Affairs Minister (EAM) S. Jaishankar on Thursday described the relationship between India and China as "complex" and acknowledged longstanding trade issues, calling the economic ties "unfair and imbalanced."

During a conversation at the Geneva Centre for Security Policy with Ambassador Jean-David Levitte, Jaishankar remarked on the intricacies of the relationship between the two countries, both of which are rising global powers with populations exceeding a billion.

"It is a very complex relationship... They had bad periods in history. Both of them are reviving and rejuvenating... These two countries also have the honour of being each other's neighbours, so each one's rise has a ripple impact," Jaishankar explained, emphasizing the challenges that arise from their shared history and proximity.

Referring to the 2020 Galwan Valley clash between Indian and Chinese troops, Jaishankar said it violated multiple agreements and prompted a significant military buildup along the Line of Actual Control (LAC). He noted that 75% of disengagement issues have been resolved, but some matters remain outstanding. The goal is to restore peace and tranquillity at the border.

In addition to border tensions, Jaishankar highlighted other difficulties in the bilateral relationship, particularly in trade, technology, telecom, and digital sectors. He expressed concern over the "unfair" nature of the economic relationship, with China enjoying better market access in India than vice versa.

India and China recently held the 31st meeting of the Working Mechanism for Consultation & Coordination (WMCC) on border affairs in Beijing, discussing ways to uphold peace at the LAC and agreeing to intensify diplomatic and military communication.

Jaishankar is currently visiting Geneva as part of a broader tour that included stops in Germany and Saudi Arabia. During his visit, he is scheduled to meet Swiss Foreign Minister to strengthen the close partnership between India and Switzerland.