Indo-China Border Disputes

What is the issue?

There were talks between the Defence Ministers of India and China in Moscow, Russia.
But, the prospects of an imminent diplomatic solution to the continuing stand-off along the LAC do not appear bright.

What are the statements made?

Both India and China have issued statements in the Moscow meet.
These statements underlined the differences in how India and China viewed the unprecedented developments along the LAC since May 2020.
[LAC – Line of Actual Control, the border between India and China.]
India’s statements - Defence Minister Rajnath Singh emphasized that China’s actions were in violation of the bilateral agreements.
He also expressed hope that both sides would be able to resolve the ongoing situation peacefully through dialogue.
China’s statements - China’s Defence Minister, General Wei Fenghe, said that it had no blame to bear for this summer’s developments.
He said that the responsibility lies entirely with the Indian side.
He called on India to immediately withdraw its troops.
He also added that both sides should stay committed to resolving the issue through dialogue and consultation.

What is the problem?

China’s consistent labelling of India as the aggressor contradicts the reality, as India has ceded some of its territories in Ladakh to China.
The problem has been a stark mismatch between China’s statements and the actions of its troops.
China’s diplomats have spoken repeatedly of the need to keep in mind the big picture of bilateral ties.
But, the actions of its military on the ground emphasize on achieving tactical gains at the border over the broader strategic relationship.
Until that calculus changes, India will have to be prepared to be tested along the border and to stand its ground over the long haul.

What could be done?

Military talks can occasionally help to avert a flare-up.
But, the two neighbours need to work toward a diplomatic solution to ensure undisturbed peace and quiet along the border.
Both sides will have the chance to reassess the situation at Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Foreign Ministers’ meet.

Source: The Hindu