"India and China reach agreement on patrolling along LAC," says Foreign secretary Vikram Misri

Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri announced on Monday that India and China have successfully reached an agreement on patrolling arrangements along the Line of Actual Control (LAC). This agreement, aimed at enhancing stability in border areas, was revealed during a press briefing ahead of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to Kazan, Russia, for the BRICS Summit scheduled for October 22-23. Misri noted that the agreement represents a significant step towards disengagement and a resolution of tensions that emerged following the violent clashes in 2020.

Misri explained that discussions between Indian and Chinese negotiators have intensified over recent weeks, leading to a clearer understanding of patrol protocols along the LAC. "This understanding will allow for the resumption of patrolling activities that reflect the status quo prior to May 2020," he stated. The foreign secretary emphasized the importance of maintaining dialogue to navigate and resolve outstanding issues that have strained bilateral relations.

External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar echoed Misri's sentiments, labeling the agreement as a "positive development" for regional stability. He asserted that the disengagement process has now been completed and highlighted that the agreement reinstates the conditions that existed in 2020. Jaishankar remarked, "We have been negotiating since September 2020, aiming to restore peace and tranquility along the border, which had been disrupted due to aggressive maneuvers by the Chinese military."

The backdrop of this agreement is critical; relations between India and China have been fraught with tension since the Galwan Valley clash in June 2020, resulting in the deaths of soldiers from both sides. This incident prompted India to adopt a more cautious approach towards Chinese investments, leading to a suspension of several key projects aimed at enhancing bilateral cooperation. In response to ongoing tensions, both nations engaged in multiple rounds of corps commanders-level talks, with a notable disengagement of troops occurring in September 2022 at Patrolling Point-15 in the Gogra-Hot Springs area.

The agreement not only addresses immediate border security concerns but also signals a potential thaw in relations as both nations prepare for Modi's anticipated meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping during the BRICS Summit. Analysts view this as an opportunity for the two leaders to further discuss cooperation in various sectors beyond border security, as both countries seek to stabilize their relationship and explore avenues for collaboration in areas such as trade and climate change.