Indian and Chinese troops have restarted joint patrols in Demchok and Depsang Plains, two key areas along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) in eastern Ladakh. This comes after both sides completed a disengagement process, which helps reduce tensions that have been high since the 2020 Galwan Valley clashes.
Coordinated Patrols with New Procedures
The Indian and Chinese armies are now coordinating their patrols, adjusting troop numbers and distances based on specific needs. Both sides are checking to ensure that temporary structures have been removed and that troops have withdrawn from these areas.
Ongoing Discussions for Peace
Commanders from both countries will keep meeting regularly to finalize patrol guidelines and address any remaining concerns. These discussions aim to prevent misunderstandings and maintain peace along the border.
Diwali Sweet Exchange: A Gesture of Goodwill
During Diwali, Indian and Chinese soldiers exchanged sweets at the border, representing friendship and goodwill. This year’s exchange was simpler, with no additional cultural events, but it still shows a spirit of cooperation between the two nations.
Soldiers of the Indian and Chinese Army exchange sweets at the Chushul-Moldo border meeting point on the occasion of #Diwali.
(Source: Indian Army) pic.twitter.com/MwhGgIYQ98
— ANI (@ANI) October 31, 2024
Key Agreement Ends Long Standoff
On October 21, India announced a significant agreement with China to end the long-standing border standoff. The following day, China confirmed this agreement, expressing a commitment to work with India on its terms. This marks the end of years of military buildup along the LAC.
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Dismantling Structures and Troop Withdrawals
After the agreement, both sides began taking down temporary structures in Demchok and Depsang and returning troops to their earlier positions. Discussions about other areas, like Galwan, are expected to happen soon in future meetings.
Positive Outlook for India-China Relations
The end of this standoff is likely to improve relations between India and China. At the recent BRICS summit in Kazan on October 25, Prime Minister Modi and President Xi Jinping talked about restarting various diplomatic talks, signaling a hopeful future for their relationship.
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