An analysis of the India-China bilateral meeting on the sidelines of the SCO reveals ten key takeaways for the relationship between the two countries. The discussions focused on rebuilding ties based on mutual respect and trust, with plans to re-establish direct flights and resume the Kailash Yatra to strengthen people-to-people connections. The talks also addressed border management agreements in the aftermath of the Eastern Ladakh conflict. However, challenges remain, with India outlining three prerequisites for moving the relationship forward: mutual respect, mutual interest, and mutual sensitivities. Unresolved issues include the 3,488-kilometer border, an estimated 43 square kilometers of Indian territory under Chinese occupation, and China’s involvement in POK through the CPEC. This has resulted in a sentiment of “cautious optimism” regarding the future of India-China relations.