India and China Complete LAC Disengagement—Will Resuming Patrols Lead to Lasting Peace?

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar announced on Monday that the disengagement process between India and China at the Line of Actual Control (LAC) is complete,

P24 News Media

October 21, 2024

1 minute

India

LAC Disengagement Complete, Patrolling to Resume Like in 2020: Jaishankar on China

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar Announces Restoration of Patrolling at LAC

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar announced on Monday that the disengagement process between India and China at the Line of Actual Control (LAC) is complete, and Indian forces will soon be able to resume patrolling as they did before 2020. Speaking at the NDTV World Summit, Jaishankar expressed optimism about the recent developments, calling them a "product of patient and persevering diplomacy."

A Diplomatic Path to Manage the 'Double Rise'

During his address, Jaishankar highlighted that both India and China are rapidly growing powers, sharing close proximity, which necessitates careful diplomatic management. “If two neighboring states are on the rise and happen to be next to each other, it is not easy,” he remarked, emphasizing that peace at the border is essential for harmonious relations.

Understanding Reached for Patrolling

Jaishankar mentioned that the understanding reached between the two nations will now allow both sides to resume their patrols along the LAC, which had been interrupted since 2020. “We have gone back to where we were in 2020. They had blocked us, so we had blocked them. Now, with the disengagement completed, we can say patrolling will resume,” he stated.

China’s Diplomatic Overtures and India’s Cautious Engagement

In recent months, China has been making efforts to improve its ties with India. Xu Feihong, the new Chinese ambassador to India, has been actively promoting stronger relations. However, India has approached this diplomatic overture cautiously. For example, during a recent Chinese annual event, the Indian External Affairs Ministry was represented by a Secretary-level officer.

Despite underlying tensions, trade relations between India and China remain strong, as highlighted in India’s latest financial report. However, India has made it clear that no substantial dialogue will take place until the border issue is fully resolved.

Jaishankar Stresses Importance of Border Peace

During the event, Jaishankar reiterated that peace at the LAC is crucial for the overall bilateral relationship with China. “If you disturb the peace and tranquillity at the border, how do you expect the rest of the relationship to go fine?” he remarked, stressing the importance of maintaining a stable and peaceful boundary for the future of India-China relations.