Lagatar24 Desk
Geneva: External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar, while attending bilateral meetings in Geneva, announced that around 75% of the disengagement issues along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) with China have been resolved. However, he emphasized that challenges remain, particularly due to the increasing militarization at the border.
Speaking at an interactive session at the Global Centre for Security Policy, Jaishankar noted that while negotiations with China have led to some progress, the broader context of the India-China relationship has been significantly affected by the 2020 Galwan Valley clashes. He stressed that “one cannot have violence at the border and then say the rest of the relationship is insulated from it.”
Progress on Disengagement
The standoff between Indian and Chinese forces began in May 2020 in the Ladakh region, leading to a prolonged military buildup on both sides. The disengagement process officially started in February 2021, but progress has been slow. Jaishankar reported that approximately 75% of disengagement concerns have been addressed, although there is still work to be done.
While partial disengagement has occurred in areas like Galwan, Hot Springs, and Gogra, Chinese troops remain entrenched in key regions like the Depsang Plains in northeastern Ladakh. This issue continues to hinder the full normalization of relations.
Jaishankar is expected to meet Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi during his visit to Switzerland, with hopes of making further progress.
Impact on India-China Relations
Since the military clashes in Galwan, the relationship between India and China has been at an all-time low. Jaishankar highlighted that peace and tranquility at the border are essential for any form of normal relations. “The basis for a good relationship, even for a normal relationship, is peace at the border,” he said.
The minister also addressed the violation of multiple agreements by China, which led to the standoff in 2020. He described the situation as dangerous, with large troop buildups at high altitudes creating the potential for conflict.
Trade and Economic Ties
In addition to border tensions, Jaishankar spoke about the economic relationship between India and China, describing it as “unfair” and “unbalanced” over the last few decades. Despite this, he maintained that India is open to business with China, but the terms of engagement in various sectors are under review.
Since the standoff began, India has scrutinized investments from Chinese companies and halted major infrastructure projects. Discussions are now underway to ease visa restrictions for Chinese nationals and explore the resumption of direct flights between India and China.
