India and China will complete military disengagement along the LAC by October 28-29, marking a significant step towards improving their diplomatic relations. This disengagement pertains specifically to Demchok and Depsang Plains and follows a critical agreement to resolve ongoing border disputes after tensions escalated significantly in 2020. External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar emphasizes that while this is an essential first step, further actions will be needed to ensure lasting peace and stability along the border.
On October 28-29, India and China are set to finalize the military disengagement process along the Line of Actual Control (LAC), a significant development aimed at ameliorating the diplomatic relations between the two nations. Following a recent pivotal agreement to address ongoing border disputes, this disengagement marks the first successful resolution of tensions since the 2020 Galwan clash, which resulted in extensive casualties on both sides. The military disengagement will focus on two specific friction points: Demchok and Depsang Plains in eastern Ladakh. An Indian Army source indicated that the agreements would be limited to these locations and would not extend to other contentious areas. Troops from both nations will revert to their positions prior to April 2020 and will resume patrolling in regions where they operated previously. In compliance with the agreements, Indian forces have commenced the withdrawal of equipment to secure locations. However, any formal ceremony to acknowledge this disengagement has yet to be confirmed as significant disagreements remain unresolved at these locations. India’s External Affairs Minister, Dr. S. Jaishankar, underscored the importance of this military disengagement as a preliminary step, emphasizing that de-escalation of tensions would follow. He acknowledged the historically strained nature of the relationship between India and China, stating that, “The situation in the border has been very disturbed and that’s had a very negative impact on the overall relationship.” Additionally, he reiterated that the agreement addresses three critical issues: immediate disengagement, subsequent de-escalation, and the broader management and negotiation of the border settlement.
The military disengagement between India and China is a complex issue rooted in a long-standing border dispute, which has seen periodic escalations, including the notable Galwan Valley clash in June 2020. The Line of Actual Control (LAC) is fraught with friction points where both countries maintain a significant military presence. Recent diplomatic engagements aim to temper these tensions and foster better relations. This particular agreement focuses on specific areas, highlighting a desire for a controlled process that will gradually move towards a more comprehensive resolution of border issues in a manner acceptable to both nations.
In summary, the completion of military disengagement along the LAC represents a critical advance in the diplomatic relationship between India and China. With a focus on limited areas, this step serves as the initial phase toward reducing tensions, with further discussions required to address deeper issues surrounding border management and overall bilateral relations.
Original Source: www.hindustantimes.com
