India, China push for peace at LAC: high-stakes talks aim to end border tensions for good

New Delhi (The Uttam Hindu): India and China are making continuous efforts to improve the situation along the Line of Actual Control (LAC). According to the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), high-level meetings involving Special Representatives and other dialogues are expected soon. MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal stated that both nations recently agreed during a meeting of the Working Mechanism for Consultation and Coordination (WMCC) on maintaining peace and harmony in border areas. He emphasized that both sides are working collaboratively to enhance conditions along the LAC.

During the WMCC meeting held in New Delhi on Thursday, both sides agreed to uphold peace and harmony in border areas in line with bilateral agreements and protocols. Following the withdrawal of troops from two standoff points in Eastern Ladakh, the two countries held their first diplomatic dialogue under a key mechanism on Thursday. The discussions reviewed outcomes from the border dispute resolution process to prevent similar incidents in the future. Responding to a question during a weekly press briefing, Jaiswal said preparations are underway for a Special Representatives’ meeting. He added, “We also discussed the meeting at the Foreign Secretary level. Once these meetings take place, we will deliberate on the next steps.” The spokesperson mentioned that the Indian statement on the WMCC meeting highlighted the implementation of the troop withdrawal process.

He further clarified, “This process has been completed. Now, the focus is on moving towards de-escalation, as mentioned in the External Affairs Minister’s statement in Parliament.” Addressing a question on patrolling along the LAC, Jaiswal stated that the Indian side has made it clear that all patrols and necessary status restoration have been carried out as required. The military standoff between India and China in Eastern Ladakh began in May 2020, leading to heightened tensions, especially after the Galwan Valley clash in June 2020. The standoff officially ended recently following the completion of troop withdrawal from Depsang and Demchok areas.