Indian defence officials confirmed that Indian and Chinese soldiers have started moving back from two important areas, Demchok and Depsang Plains, in the Eastern Ladakh region. This step is part of an agreement between India and China to lower tensions along the Line of Actual Control (LAC), which is the border between the two countries. The disagreement between India and China started in 2020, and these two areas were the last points of conflict.
Indian and Chinese troops start pulling back
As part of the agreement, Indian soldiers have begun moving their equipment away from the conflict areas. Officials said that India and China have been discussing their issues through meetings between diplomats and military leaders. These talks have helped bring about this important step to bring peace to the border.
India and China agree on border patrolling
Indian Defence Minister Rajnath Singh said that India and China have come to an agreement to bring things back to normal at the border, focusing on keeping both countries safe. Speaking at the Chanakya Defence Dialogue, Singh explained that the agreement lets both sides patrol and use their traditional areas along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) for grazing. He also pointed out that regular talks have been very important in finding this solution.
The border conflict between India and China began in April-May 2020 when Chinese soldiers moved into Eastern Ladakh, leading to a tense standoff. This conflict became very serious and was the first violent clash along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) since 1975. On the night of June 15-16, 2020, Indian and Chinese soldiers fought in the Galwan Valley, where 20 Indian soldiers lost their lives, and Chinese soldiers also suffered casualties.
On Monday, Indian Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri said that India and China have agreed on how they will patrol the border. This decision came after weeks of talks between the two countries. It is hoped that this agreement will help solve the problems that started during the 2020 conflict.