Peace in the Himalayas: India and China De-escalate Dispute

Troops from India and China are withdrawing from the final stand-off points along their disputed Himalayan border, concluding a four-year military face-off. The conflict originated in June 2020 in the Galwan Valley. Despite losses on both sides, recent accords have led to a de-escalation of tensions.

India and China have initiated a withdrawal of troops from two final stand-off positions along their disputed Himalayan border, signaling an end to a tense four-year military standoff. This development could pave the way for improved diplomatic relations between the two nuclear-armed nations, which have been in conflict since June 2020.

The border disagreement has its roots in a 4,000-km (2,500-mile) undemarcated stretch that traverses glaciers and rivers in the Himalayas. The situation flared in June 2020 in the Galwan Valley, leading to the death of at least 20 Indian soldiers and four Chinese soldiers in the first deadly clash between these neighbors since 1975.

Following the violent confrontation, India ramped up scrutiny on Chinese investments, banning popular apps and limiting air travel from China. Although tempers had flared, a recent agreement has seen a pullback from contested zones, marking a step towards easing previously strained ties.

(With inputs from agencies.)