 |
|
The recent exchange of Diwali sweets between Indian and Chinese troops at five locations along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) marks a significant step towards easing tensions that have gripped the border region for nearly four years. This gesture of goodwill follows the completion of military disengagement from the Depsang and Demchok areas, a move that aligns with the patrolling agreement reached last week. The agreement called for the removal of military personnel and infrastructure, including temporary camps, from these strategic locations, and the withdrawal of troops to their positions prior to April 2020.
The sweets exchange took place at Chushul Maldo and Daulat Beg Oldi in Ladakh, Banchha (near Kibutu) and Bumla in Arunachal Pradesh, and Nathula in Sikkim. This act of symbolic diplomacy, while seemingly small, carries immense significance given the long-standing friction between the two nations. It symbolizes a tentative return to normalcy and a willingness to engage in dialogue and cooperation after a period of heightened military activity and diplomatic standoff.
The disengagement process, although a positive development, has not come without its challenges. The verification process, ensuring China has indeed withdrawn its troops, is ongoing. Ground-level commanders from both sides will continue to inform each other prior to regular patrols to prevent miscommunication. It's worth noting that both India and China will maintain surveillance options in the Depsang and Demchok areas, highlighting the ongoing need for vigilance despite the disengagement.
The disengagement is seen as a crucial step towards de-escalating tensions, but it's only the first phase. De-escalation efforts will need to extend to other areas along the LAC, such as the Gogra-Hot Springs area, where tensions remain. The disengagement agreement was announced hours before Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to Russia for the BRICS summit, where he met with Chinese President Xi Jinping. Both leaders expressed their commitment to ensuring peace and stability along the border, emphasizing the importance of mutual trust and respect. While this agreement offers a glimmer of hope for improved relations, it remains to be seen if it will lead to a lasting resolution of the border dispute and usher in an era of sustained cooperation between India and China.
Source: Indian, Chinese Troops Exchange Diwali Sweets After Border Disengagement