India, China to continue talks on border conflict

Story by ATV | Posted by Aasha Khosa | Date 23-01-2021

CDS Bipin Rawat visiting troops in forward areas of Ladakh

New Delhi

India and China have agreed to push for early 'disengagement of frontline troops" and work jointly for deescalation of tension in the Eastern Ladakh region.

A joint statement was issued a day after the ninth round of talks held between the Army corps commanders of the two countires on Sundaay-Monday that lasted 16 hours.

The two sides agreed that this round of meeting was positive, practical and constructive, which further enhanced mutual trust and understanding and agreed to follow the important consensus of their state leaders, maintain the good momentum of dialogue and negotiation to jointly advance de-escalation."

The two sides agreed to continue their effective efforts in ensuring the restraint of the frontline troops, stabilize and control the situation along the LAC in the Western Sector of the China-India border, and jointly maintain peace and tranquility.

The meeting held at Moldo (China) opposite Chushul.

The joint statement issued in Delhi said the two sides would hold the next round of talks at the soonest.

The PLA had attacked the Indian troop[s in Galwan Valley on June 5, killing 20 of Indians. As the treaty between India and China barred the forces from using firearms, the Chinese used clubs and deadly improvised weapons to bulgdeon the Indians. At least 40 Chinese also died in retaliation by the Indian troops.

Besides the Military leaders, a Ministry of External Affairs representative is also part of the negotiations.

Indian Army is otherwise prepared for a long haul on the semi-arctic heights in northern Ladakh against the Chinese. Army chief General Manoj Mukund Naravane had said that the force is ready for a long haul along the Line of Actual Control (LAC), while hoping for an amicable solution to its nine-month-long conflict with the People's Liberation Army.

"We are prepared to hold our ground where we are for as long as it takes to achieve our national goals and interest," he had said.

On August 30, 2020, India had occupied critical mountain heights on the southern bank of the Pangong Lake like Rechin La, Rezang La, Mukpari, and Tabletop that were unmanned till now.

India also made some deployments near Blacktop also after the Chinese tried to make a provocative military move. (Agencies)