India and China Forge Key Agreement on Border Patrols

India and China have reached a crucial agreement on patrolling the Line of Actual Control in eastern Ladakh, addressing longstanding issues in areas such as Depsang and Demchok. This development was welcomed by both nations' leaders and is expected to foster peaceful and stable bilateral relations.

In a significant diplomatic development, India and China have successfully concluded an agreement over patrolling arrangements along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) in eastern Ladakh. Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri announced on Wednesday that the accord primarily concerns the regions of Depsang and Demchok.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping lauded the agreement during a bilateral meeting on the sidelines of the 16th BRICS Summit in Russia. This marks their first substantial interaction in nearly five years, occurring in the wake of disengagement and resolution initiatives in the India-China border areas since 2020.

Both leaders emphasized the necessity of maintaining peace and stability in the border regions, expressing that harmonious India-China relations could positively impact global peace and prosperity. The agreement is seen as a stepping stone towards enhancing strategic communications and stabilizing bilateral relations, with further discussions slated to build on this diplomatic momentum.

(With inputs from agencies.)