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The recent agreement between India and China regarding patrolling arrangements along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) signifies a significant development in the ongoing border tensions between the two nations. This agreement, reached after lengthy negotiations, marks a return to the situation that existed prior to the 2020 border standoff, indicating a potential de-escalation of the conflict.
Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri announced the agreement, highlighting the efforts of Indian and Chinese negotiators in the past few weeks. This agreement emphasizes a commitment to disengagement and resolution of the issues that arose in 2020. The agreement represents a positive development, as stated by External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, creating a foundation for peace and tranquility along the border areas. The agreement essentially reverts the situation to the status quo ante, where both sides will be able to patrol the LAC as they did before 2020, thereby restoring a degree of normalcy to the border region.
The agreement is a product of persistent diplomatic efforts, as emphasized by Jaishankar, who highlighted the negotiations that began in September 2020 following his meeting with his Chinese counterpart, Wang Yi. This agreement builds upon previous discussions and agreements, including the August 2023 meeting where both sides reaffirmed their commitment to peace and tranquility on the ground and agreed to intensify diplomatic and military channels to address outstanding issues. The agreement serves as a crucial step towards easing tensions that had been escalating since the deadly clash in the Galwan Valley in 2020. The Galwan Valley incident had significantly strained bilateral relations, prompting India to increase scrutiny of Chinese investments and suspend several collaborative projects.
Despite the progress in reaching this agreement, the relationship between India and China remains delicate. The lingering distrust and unresolved issues stemming from the past few years require continued dialogue and commitment from both sides. The implementation of this agreement, which promises a return to pre-2020 patrolling arrangements, will be closely observed for its long-term impact on the border situation and the overall bilateral relationship. The agreement serves as a stepping stone towards a more stable and cooperative relationship between the two nuclear-armed neighbors.
The path ahead remains challenging. The two countries have a history of border disputes and differing territorial claims, and the current agreement does not address these underlying issues. Continued dialogue and engagement will be critical in building trust and finding lasting solutions to the long-standing border dispute. The success of this agreement hinges upon its implementation in a fair and transparent manner, ensuring that both sides uphold their commitments and contribute to a peaceful and stable border environment.
Source: 'Situation now as it was in 2020': EAM Jaishankar on India, China patrolling deal along LAC