India, China Agree to Resolve Outstanding Issues Aimed at Disengagement Along Line of Actual Control

Chinese soldiers are seen carrying spears and other sharp-edged weapons near Mukhpari Hill north of Rezang La, a mountain pass on the Line of Actual Control, in 2020. (IANS photo)

NEW DELHI – India and China have agreed to resolve outstanding issues aimed at disengagement along the Line of Actual Control in Eastern Ladakh, thereby paving the way for complete de-escalation, the Indian government said April 10.

“The two sides agreed on the need to resolve the outstanding issues in an expeditious manner in accordance with the existing agreements and protocols,” a government statement said.

Talks between Indian and Chinese military delegates were held in Chushul April 9 to discuss the next phase of disengagement in Eastern Ladakh, which lasted for 13 hours.

The 11th round of Corps Commander-level talks in Chushul took place after almost a two-month gap. The Indian military delegation was led by Lieutenant General P.G.K. Menon, the commander of 14 Corps based in Leh.

The two sides had a detailed exchange of views for the resolution of the remaining issues related to disengagement along the LAC.

“It is also highlighted that completion of disengagement in other areas would pave the way for the two sides to consider de-escalation of forces and ensure full restoration of peace and tranquility and enable progress in bilateral relations,” the statement said.

As the India-China military tussle completes almost a year, tensions remain along the borders, even after the successful disengagement process in Pangong Lake. Tanks and troops from both sides have pulled back and there is no eyeball-to-eyeball confrontation, but the build up across Eastern Ladakh continues.

After the recent talks, the two sides agreed that it is important to take guidance from the consensus of their leaders, continue their communication and dialogue and work towards a mutually acceptable resolution of the remaining issues at the earliest.

They also agreed to jointly maintain stability on the ground, avoid any new incidents and jointly maintain peace in the border areas, the statement said.

India and China have been engaged in a year-long standoff along the LAC. The confrontations began on the north bank of Pangong Lake, both in the waters and on the banks, as Chinese incursions increased in early May last year.