At a recent meeting with Chinese officials, National Security Advisor (NSA) Ajit Doval firmly conveyed India's position on regional conflicts and territorial integrity, emphasizing that war is not India's preferred course of action. This message was delivered against the backdrop of China's increasing support for Pakistan's stance on territorial issues, adding a layer of complexity to the already delicate relationship between the three nations.

Doval's comments were made during the 18th meeting of the Secretaries of Security Council of Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) member states. The SCO is an intergovernmental organization that includes China, India, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Russia, Pakistan, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan.

During the meeting, Doval stressed the importance of respecting the sovereignty and territorial integrity of all member states. He called for adherence to the SCO charter, which emphasizes "mutual respect for sovereignty, territorial integrity of states and inviolability of state borders, non-use of force or threat of its use in international relations and seeking no unilateral military superiority in adjacent areas". He also stated that connectivity projects should be consultative and transparent. India has notably refrained from joining China's Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) and has voiced strong objections to the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), as it traverses through Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir (POK).

Furthermore, Doval addressed the critical issue of terrorism, describing it and its financing as major threats to global peace and security. He stressed that all acts of terror are unjustifiable, regardless of motivation. He urged all nations to fulfill their obligations under United Nations Security Council (UNSC) Resolutions 1267 and 1373. This comes as China has repeatedly blocked the listing of Pakistan-based terror groups by the UNSC 1267 sanctions committee.

Doval's strong message also indirectly criticized China's stance on cross-border terrorism. He highlighted the continued threat from terror groups in the SCO region, including those designated by the UN Security Council, and stressed the need to hold accountable the sponsors, financiers, and facilitators of terrorist activities.

These statements are particularly significant considering the ongoing border dispute between India and China in the Ladakh and Arunachal sectors. India has consistently accused China of violating border management agreements and deploying troops to unilaterally alter the status quo. Doval's emphasis on respecting territorial integrity and avoiding the use of force can be seen as a direct response to these actions.

The meeting took place with both China and Pakistan participating virtually. Pakistan was represented by Amir Hassan, Secretary of the National Security Division, while China was represented by Wang Xiachong, State Councilor and Minister of Public Security.