New Delhi: In what is being seen as cautious optimism, India and China have said the 12th round of Corps Commander level talks Saturday were “constructive”.
In a joint statement issued Monday, the Indian Army and the People’s Liberation Army (PLA) of China said they have decided to resolve “remaining issues” in an expeditious manner while maintaining the momentum of “dialogue and negotiations”.
It added that “progress has been made” but did not mention any specifics, noting that the two armies did not want to preempt any development on the ground.
It further noted that the two sides had a candid and in-depth exchange of views on the resolution in remaining areas related to disengagement along the Line of Actual Control in the western sector of India-China border areas.
“The two sides noted that this round of meeting was constructive, which further enhanced mutual understanding. They agreed to resolve these remaining issues in an expeditious manner in accordance with the existing agreements and protocols and maintain the momentum of dialogue and negotiations,” read the statement.
It added that both sides also agreed that in the interim they will continue their effective efforts in ensuring stability along the LAC in the Western Sector and jointly maintain peace and tranquility.
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No mention of Gogra, Hot Springs
The statement did not mention any decision on disengagement from the Gogra and Hot Springs areas of Eastern Ladakh.
However, sources in the defence establishment told ThePrint that “forward movement” is expected in the region but more rounds of talks are needed at the senior and local commanders’ level.
The Saturday talks, which began on 10.30 am in Moldo on the Chinese side of the LAC and ended at around 7.30 pm, have been the shortest yet.
There was also no joint statement issued after the 11th round of Corps Commander level meetings held in April during which China had changed its stand and wanted de-escalation to take place before disengagement.
De-escalation before disengagement would be an advantage for China as it can move troops back to the frontline much faster than India due to the better infrastructure on its side of the Himalayan frontier.
(Edited by Rachel John)
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