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External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, during the BRICS outreach session in Kazan, Russia, emphasized the critical role of dialogue in resolving disputes. He stressed the importance of upholding agreements once they are reached, asserting that this approach is essential for maintaining international peace and stability. Jaishankar's remarks came amidst recent progress in resolving the long-standing border standoff between India and China in eastern Ladakh. The two countries have reached an agreement to end the four-year military standoff, marking a significant step towards de-escalation in the region. The agreement signals a return to patrolling agreements that were in place before the 2020 Galwan clash, signifying a potential shift in the bilateral relationship.
This development is seen as a positive step towards improving relations between the two Asian giants. The agreement was reached after 17 rounds of working mechanism meetings and 21 rounds of military dialogue, highlighting the intensive efforts invested in reaching a solution. The disengagement agreement also paved the way for the first bilateral talks between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping in five years. This meeting signifies a renewed commitment to dialogue and cooperation at the highest level. Modi, during the delegation-level talks, emphasized the importance of mutual trust, respect, and sensitivity in guiding bilateral relations.
Jaishankar's call for dialogue and respect for agreements echoes Prime Minister Modi's broader stance on resolving global conflicts. Modi has repeatedly stated that this is not an era of war, and he has championed peaceful solutions to international disputes. His peace message takes on added significance in light of the ongoing war in Ukraine and the recent conflict between Israel and Hamas. In this context, Jaishankar also addressed the escalating situation in the Middle East, expressing concern over the potential for the conflict to spread further in the region. He highlighted the widespread anxiety surrounding the situation, emphasizing the impact on maritime trade and the grave human and material consequences of further escalation.
Jaishankar underscored the need for a fair and durable solution to the conflict in the Middle East, advocating for a two-state solution. He also highlighted the urgent need for zero tolerance for terrorism, underscoring the importance of combating this global threat. Jaishankar's statements emphasize the importance of dialogue, diplomacy, and respect for international agreements in navigating a world beset by conflict and uncertainty. The recent progress in the India-China border standoff, coupled with the commitment to peaceful resolution of global conflicts, offers a glimmer of hope for a more peaceful and stable world.
Source: Disputes must be settled through dialogue, agreements respected: Jaishankar