In his overview of recent events in India-China relations, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar has emphasized the significance of de-escalation and efficient border management. He told the Lok Sabha in a statement on December 3, 2024, that tensions brought on by Chinese actions along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) in eastern Ladakh have made bilateral relations “abnormal” since 2020.
Following the completion of force disengagement at various places of contention along the LAC, especially in Depsang and Demchok, Jaishankar said that recent diplomatic engagements had resulted in some improvement in India-China ties.
Addressing the army buildup along the border is the next top objective after disengagement is accomplished. In order to maintain peace and serenity as a precondition for future bilateral growth, Jaishankar emphasized that talks on these issues will take place in the days ahead.
Historical Context: According to the minister, the situation became much more heated following violent skirmishes in the Galwan Valley in June 2020, which resulted in the first deaths on both sides in decades. Bilateral ties have been affected for a long time by this tragedy, therefore going forward, caution is required.
Jaishankar reiterated India’s commitment to engaging with China through bilateral discussions aimed at achieving a fair and mutually acceptable resolution to ongoing boundary disputes.
