India and China Confirm Patrolling Agreement Along LAC
China has confirmed an agreement with India regarding patrolling arrangements along the Line of Actual Control, which both countries view positively. Indian Army Chief General Upendra Dwivedi emphasized restoring trust as the first priority. This agreement marks a potential resolution to four years of military tension in eastern Ladakh, with plans for subsequent disengagement and de-escalation steps.
On October 23, 2024, following India’s announcement of a new agreement on patrolling arrangements along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) with China, the latter confirmed that both parties have reached a consensus on key issues. However, the specifics of the patrolling agreement were not disclosed. In a statement from New Delhi, Army Chief General Upendra Dwivedi emphasized that “restoring trust” between the Indian Army and the People’s Liberation Army (PLA) is paramount, advising that both sides must refrain from encroaching into buffer zones and revert to the status quo of April 2020, prior to the military standoff in eastern Ladakh. General Dwivedi outlined that subsequent steps should include disengagement, de-escalation, and the regular management of the LAC. Meanwhile, the Chinese Foreign Ministry, represented by spokesperson Lin Jian, confirmed that both nations maintained close communication concerning border issues and viewed the recent developments positively. Although specifics surrounding the agreed resolution were not provided, Lin indicated that China would collaborate with India to implement the solutions. In connection with this diplomatic progress, Army Chief General Dwivedi stated, “We want to go back to the status quo of April 2020. Thereafter, we will be looking at disengagement, de-escalation, normal management of the Line of Actual Control.” He elaborated on the necessity for mutual reassurance and trust as essential components of patrolling, which he believes will facilitate the restoration of relations. Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri detailed that the agreement stemmed from diligent discussions between Indian and Chinese diplomats and military officials over the past weeks, marking a significant stride towards disengagement and resolution of the 2020 issues. The agreement is anticipated to initiate de-escalation in the areas where both nations maintain up to 60,000 troops.
The ongoing tensions along the India-China border have historically been marked by military confrontations, particularly following Chinese incursions in eastern Ladakh since 2020. These skirmishes have led to a prolonged military standoff and strained bilateral relations. In efforts to de-escalate this situation, both countries have recently engaged in diplomatic and military dialogue aimed at establishing peace and normalcy along the LAC. The recent patrolling agreement is viewed as an essential step in rebuilding trust and ensuring stability along this contentious border.
In summary, the recent agreement between India and China regarding patrolling along the Line of Actual Control represents a crucial turning point in their bilateral relations aimed at restoring trust and reducing tensions. Both Army Chief General Upendra Dwivedi and Chinese officials have expressed optimism about the agreement, which is expected to pave the way for further disengagement and de-escalation efforts. This development comes after more than four years of military standoff and highlights the importance of continued dialogue between the two nations.
Original Source: indianexpress.com
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