Disengagement Starts from Ladakh Between India and China As New Pact is Signed for LAC
India and China representatives, after months of talks, have started to withdraw troops and dismantle infrastructure along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) in Eastern Ladakh, which was almost in a four-year stand-off.
Significant Update of the Disengagement Procedure
The disengagement is believed to have started a few days after the breakthrough agreement on October 21, wherein India and China mutually agreed on de-escalation of their armies along the disputed border. Sources cited say the forces are withdrawing troops as well as dismantling all the temporary structures and tents on both sides of the Charding Nala. Indian troops are said to be withdrawing west of Nala, Chinese troops are reported to be retreating eastwards as well with the Chinese side reporting reduction in military vehicles and personnel from both sides are pulling back.
Re-establish patrolling in Depsang and Demchok
This disengagement is expected to open up the way for resumed patrolling in key areas like Depsang and Demchok within the next few days, meaning a return to the pre-2020 arrangements. This news follows a long series of diplomatic and military talks conducted to restore peace following the June 2020 Galwan Valley clash.
Foreign Secretary Misri and Minister Jaishankar on the Breakthrough
Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri confirmed the agreement after long hours of extended negotiations by saying this marked a major step to resolving the standoff. Talking to the press, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar added, Soldiers from both sides will resume their patrolling along the pre-November last year dates -- so that is the situation.
With the agreement, a future meeting between PM Modi and President Xi Jinping may be possible as well, which may happen at the BRICS Summit in Kazan.
Background of the LAC Dispute
Since June 2020, India and China have had various military and diplomatic discussions to de-escalate after tensions peaked when the Galwan Valley incident became a flash point. While key points of contention still exist, both countries have now completed disengagement at several critical places along LAC-a renewed commitment to peaceful borders.
Inputs by Agencies
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