Indian Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri is recognized as a China expert due to his extensive experience and deep knowledge of Chinese affairs, gained through several key assignments in the Indian Foreign Service (IFS). Here's a detailed look at his background and career:

Educational Background

Vikram Misri holds a Bachelor's degree in History from the University of Delhi and an MBA from the XLRI – Xavier School of Management, Jamshedpur. This educational foundation provided him with a strong analytical background, essential for his diplomatic career.

Diplomatic Career

• Entry into the Indian Foreign Service: Vikram Misri joined the Indian Foreign Service in 1989. Over the years, he has served in various capacities in Indian missions around the world, including in France, Tunisia, Belgium, Pakistan, and Myanmar. These postings gave him a broad understanding of global diplomacy and international relations.

• China-Related Assignments: His most notable assignments that established him as a China expert include:

  • Deputy Chief of Mission in Beijing (2014-2016): During this crucial period, Misri was closely involved in managing India-China relations, which have always been complex and multifaceted. His role required him to navigate the intricacies of bilateral ties, particularly as the two countries grappled with border issues, trade imbalances, and regional security concerns.
  • Indian Ambassador to China (2019-2021): Vikram Misri's tenure as the Indian Ambassador to China solidified his reputation as a China expert. He took charge at a time when India-China relations were under strain due to the Doklam standoff and other geopolitical tensions. His deep understanding of Chinese culture, politics, and strategy was invaluable in managing these delicate situations.

• Challenges during his Ambassadorship: Misri's tenure as Ambassador coincided with significant challenges, including the 2020 Galwan Valley clash between Indian and Chinese forces, which was one of the most serious military confrontations between the two countries in decades. His role involved not only crisis management but also maintaining diplomatic channels open for dialogue during a time of heightened tension.

Role as Indian Foreign Secretary

• Appointment: Vikram Misri was appointed as the Indian Foreign Secretary in December 2021, succeeding Harsh Vardhan Shringla. His appointment was seen as a strategic move, given his expertise in dealing with China at a time when India's relations with its northern neighbor were particularly sensitive.

• Strategic Insight on China: As Foreign Secretary, Misri's insights into China's strategic thinking and diplomatic maneuvers are considered crucial for India, especially in the context of ongoing border disputes, China's increasing influence in South Asia, and the broader Indo-Pacific region.

Reputation

Vikram Misri is widely respected for his calm demeanor, strategic acumen, and deep understanding of Chinese diplomacy. His career has been marked by his ability to manage complex and often contentious diplomatic challenges, making him one of India's foremost experts on China within the diplomatic corps.

Vikram Misri