India, China Hold Diplomatic Talks to Review Border Situation, Affirm Disengagement Progress

New Delhi: India and China held diplomatic talks on Thursday to review the border situation, a month after the armies of both nations successfully disengaged from the contentious areas of Depsang and Demchok in eastern Ladakh. This marks a significant development in resolving tensions that emerged during the standoff in 2020.

The discussions took place during the 32nd meeting of the Working Mechanism for Consultation and Coordination on India-China Border Affairs (WMCC). The Indian delegation was led by Gourangalal Das, Joint Secretary (East Asia) in the Ministry of External Affairs, while the Chinese delegation was headed by Hong Liang, Director General of the Boundary and Oceanic Affairs Department of the Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Key Takeaways from the Meeting

In a statement released by India’s Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), the two sides reaffirmed the positive progress made in implementing the recent disengagement agreement. This agreement, reached earlier this year, concluded the resolution of issues that escalated during the border tensions in 2020.

The MEA added, “Both sides reviewed the situation in border areas and reflected on the lessons learned from the events of 2020 to ensure such incidents do not recur. They emphasized the importance of regular diplomatic and military exchanges through established mechanisms.”

The meeting also served as a preparatory step for the next round of talks between the Special Representatives of India and China, as decided by the two nations' leaders during their October 23, 2024, meeting in Kazan, Russia.

Focus on Peace and Stability

Both delegations underscored the importance of effective border management and maintaining peace and tranquillity along the Line of Actual Control (LAC). They reiterated their commitment to adhere to bilateral agreements, protocols, and understandings to avoid further confrontations.

During the visit, Hong Liang, the leader of the Chinese delegation, also called on Foreign Secretary Vinay Kwatra to discuss broader aspects of India-China relations.

Background

Tensions between India and China have remained high since 2020 when violent clashes in the Galwan Valley led to casualties on both sides. However, recent disengagement efforts in Depsang and Demchok signal a thaw in relations and a willingness to move toward a peaceful resolution of outstanding issues.

The meeting reflects continued efforts by both nations to address unresolved border disputes while maintaining regular dialogue at both diplomatic and military levels.