India’s External Affairs Minister, S. Jaishankar, announced on Sunday that India and China are preparing to resume joint patrolling along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) in Ladakh, aiming to return to the arrangements in place before the border standoff began in April 2020. This move comes after a recent memorandum of understanding (MoU) signed on October 21, lifting restrictions on patrolling in critical areas like Demchok and Depsang.
Restoration of Pre-October 2020 Border Protocols
Addressing the press in Mumbai, Jaishankar expressed expectations of gradually returning to pre-October 31, 2020, patrolling routines. The agreement targets zones in Zabsang, Demchok, and Depsang, aiming to manage the borders better and reduce the likelihood of future confrontations. Both sides have agreed to work towards a stable patrolling framework similar to the one previously observed.
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Challenges in Disengagement Still Remain
Jaishankar acknowledged that some disengagement and patrolling challenges persist, with ongoing discussions focusing on border stability and enhanced management practices. The current agreement addresses only two major friction points Demchok and Depsang Plains while talks continue for other contentious regions along the LAC.
Army and Diplomatic Efforts Lead to Breakthrough
The Minister commended India’s armed forces and diplomats, emphasizing that the Indian Army operated under “very, very unimaginable” conditions to secure the nation’s interests. Following the agreement, both nations have begun troop disengagement in the Demchok and Depsang Plains regions, with full withdrawal expected by October 28-29.
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