India and China Reach Groundbreaking Agreement on Border Patrols

India and China have agreed on new patrolling protocols along the Line of Actual Control in eastern Ladakh. The breakthrough comes after weeks of negotiations, addressing friction points at Depsang and Demchok. The deal aims to disengage troops and restore border peace post-2020 standoff.

India has announced a significant agreement with China to manage patrolling duties in remaining friction areas along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) in eastern Ladakh, a breakthrough in an ongoing dispute.

According to Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri, this accord, achieved after extensive diplomatic and military negotiations, will facilitate troop disengagement and potentially resolve long-standing issues stemming from the 2020 standoff. The patrolling protocol particularly focuses on the Depsang and Demchok regions.

The agreement's impact on restoring previous patrolling rights remains uncertain. Tensions have risen since May 2020, escalating after a deadly clash in Galwan Valley. India stresses border peace as crucial for normalizing relations, with significant steps required to address remaining military tensions.

(With inputs from agencies.)