India-China Talks: Disengagement Progress Stalled in Depsang and Demchok

Despite recent disengagement in four areas, the security establishment reports that friction points in Depsang and Demchok in Eastern Ladakh remain unresolved. External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar claims 75% of disengagement issues are resolved, but talks have shown little progress in the last three years.

Amid China's announcement of disengagement at four locations, security sources reveal ongoing friction in Depsang and Demchok in Eastern Ladakh remains unresolved. No forward movement has been made along the Line of Actual Control in the past three years.

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar claimed in Geneva that 75% of disengagement issues between India and China have been resolved. Meanwhile, Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Mao Ning reported the border situation is stable and the two countries' front-line armies have achieved disengagement in four Western sector areas, including the Galwan Valley.

Sources say the last disengagement followed India's strategic position on the Kailash ranges in 2020. Despite 21 rounds of military talks between India and China, little progress has been made in altering ground positions in the last three years.

Mao stated that recent consultations have advanced mutual understanding, paving the way for stronger bilateral ties. On September 12, Director Wang Yi met India's NSA Ajit Doval in St. Petersburg, discussing progress and agreeing to enhance trust and communication.

Doval emphasized that peace and respect along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) are crucial for normal bilateral relations. Both nations must adhere to prior agreements to improve ties, according to the Ministry of External Affairs.

The countries agreed that their bilateral relationship has significant regional and global implications.

(With inputs from agencies.)