Relationships between India and China depend on peace and stability: DR. S JAISHANKAR

INN/New Delhi, @Infodeaofficial

In order to promote improved ties between India and China, External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar underlined the vital significance of peace and stability in border regions. Speaking to the Rajya Sabha today about the latest developments in India-China ties, Dr. Jaishankar stated that de-escalation and efficient border management will be the main topics of the two nations’ talks in the days ahead.

Regarding the clash between the Indian and Chinese armies in eastern Ladakh in April and May of 2020, Dr. Jaishankar stated that India-China relations have been out of the ordinary since 2020, when Chinese actions disrupted peace and serenity in the border regions. He claimed that China’s massive army buildup at the Line of Actual Control in eastern Ladakh in April and May 2020 led to multiple clashes with soldiers. He went on to say that the circumstance also caused patrols operations to be disrupted. He praised the military’s contribution, stating that India was able to counter-deploy quickly and successfully in spite of logistical difficulties and the COVID scenario.

The Minister emphasised how these tensions have been gradually reduced, with disengagement being attained through a methodical process in places like Depsang and Demchok in eastern Ladakh. Dr. Jaishankar stressed that no side should try to unilaterally change the status quo and that both parties must strictly respect and adhere to the LINE OF ACTUAL CONTROL.

The Minister emphasised that as a result of the 1962 wars, China unlawfully occupied 38,000 square kilometres of Indian territory in Aksai Chin. He went on to say that in 1963, Pakistan unlawfully gave China 5,180 square kilometres of Indian territory, which China had occupied since 1948. According to the Minister, India and China have been negotiating a solution to the boundary dispute for several decades. The Minister restated India’s determination to settle boundary disputes with China through bilateral talks that aim to establish a just and agreeable framework.

Significant progress has been made in the development of roads, airfields, and other logistical facilities in Ladakh, Dr. Jaishankar said, highlighting the government’s priority on bolstering border infrastructure. The government’s determination to protect national boundaries is reflected in these improvements, which have strengthened the military’s ability to counter-deploy effectively. The External Affairs Minister made a similar declaration in the Lok Sabha on December 3.