New Delhi

Vikram Doraiswami has been appointed as India’s new ambassador to China, a key diplomatic posting amid ongoing efforts by both countries to stabilise ties after recent tensions.

A 1992-batch Indian Foreign Service officer, Doraiswami is currently serving as India’s High Commissioner to the United Kingdom and will succeed Pradeep Kumar Rawat in Beijing. The Ministry of External Affairs said he is expected to assume his new role shortly.

His appointment comes as India and China work towards improving relations following the prolonged military standoff in eastern Ladakh that began in 2020, including the clashes in the Galwan Valley. Although disengagement was completed in 2024, both sides have been attempting to rebuild diplomatic and strategic engagement.

Doraiswami brings extensive diplomatic experience, including earlier postings in Hong Kong and Beijing, where he also studied Mandarin. Over the years, he has held several key positions, including roles at India’s Permanent Mission to the United Nations in New York, the Consulate General in Johannesburg, and the Prime Minister’s Office.

He has also served as ambassador to Uzbekistan and South Korea, and as High Commissioner to Bangladesh before taking up his current assignment in the UK in 2022. Within the MEA, he has handled important divisions such as SAARC, the Americas, and Bangladesh-Myanmar, as well as international organisations and summits.

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Fluent in multiple languages including Mandarin and French, Doraiswami’s experience is expected to play a significant role in managing India’s complex relationship with China.