India-China Reach Breakthrough Patrolling Agreement on Disputed Border

India and China have reached a significant agreement on patrolling arrangements along the Line of Actual Control, reverting to the status quo before May 2020. This breakthrough, seen as a result of persistent diplomacy, paves the way for disengagement and improved bilateral relations post the 2020 tensions.

External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar announced a historic agreement between India and China regarding patrolling arrangements along the disputed Line of Actual Control, marking a return to pre-May 2020 conditions. This development is hailed as a positive resolution following diplomatic efforts to ease tensions that flared in eastern Ladakh in 2020.

During a session at the NDTV World Summit, Jaishankar described the agreement as a 'positive and good' progress. Echoing the statements of Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri, he confirmed that both nations have concurred on patrolling points, effectively completing the disengagement process initiated after Chinese military actions strained bilateral ties.

Misri, in a pre-BRICS Summit briefing, underscored the significance of the agreement as a foundation for peace along the disputed border. He noted ongoing dialogues through various diplomatic and military channels had led to this resolution, which could facilitate potential discussions between Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping at the upcoming summit.

(With inputs from agencies.)