India and China have agreed to a pact on military patrols along the disputed border in the Himalayas, leading to the resolution of a conflict that began in 2020. The agreement was reached following weeks of discussions between Indian and Chinese diplomats and military negotiators. The Line of Actual Control (LAC) separates Chinese and Indian-held territories in the region, with China claiming a shorter portion. The pact does not specify the withdrawal of the additional troops stationed in the Ladakh region since 2020, but progress has been made in the disengagement of troops in certain areas.
The announcement comes ahead of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Russia for the BRICS summit, where discussions with Chinese President Xi Jinping are possible. The tensions between India and China escalated in 2020 after a deadly military clash, leading to a long standoff with troops stationed in the mountainous region. Both sides have taken steps to withdraw troops from some areas, but there are still challenges ahead in resolving the dispute.
Indian officials have expressed optimism about the pact, describing it as a result of patient and persevering diplomacy. They hope that restoring peace and tranquillity on the border will pave the way for further positive relations between the two countries. The focus now shifts to addressing more complex situations along the border to fully resolve the conflict. Both sides have emphasized the importance of maintaining communication and dialogue to prevent further escalation.
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