The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) on Friday described the latest round of discussions between India and China under the Working Mechanism for Consultation and Coordination on India-China Border Affairs (WMCC) as constructive and a step forward in resolving the ongoing border standoff.
Constructive Dialogue
In a statement, the MEA said that the meeting, held on Thursday, was conducted in a cordial and constructive atmosphere. Both sides reviewed the situation along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) in the western sector and exchanged views on achieving the next phase of disengagement and de-escalation.
Commitment to Peace
The Indian delegation was led by Joint Secretary (East Asia) from the MEA, while the Chinese side was headed by Director General of the Department of Boundary and Oceanic Affairs. The two sides reaffirmed their commitment to maintaining peace and tranquility in the border areas.
The MEA further noted that the discussions were aimed at resolving the remaining issues along the LAC, which has been a flashpoint between the two nuclear-armed neighbors since the 2020 Galwan Valley clash. The meeting was part of the ongoing diplomatic and military dialogue to restore normalcy in the region.
Step Forward
“The discussions were constructive and represent a step forward,” the MEA said, adding that both sides agreed to maintain close communication and continue the dialogue through the WMCC and other military mechanisms. The next round of talks is expected to be scheduled soon.
Background
India and China have been locked in a tense standoff along the LAC in eastern Ladakh since May 2020. Multiple rounds of military and diplomatic talks have been held to de-escalate the situation, but full disengagement has not yet been achieved in all friction points. The WMCC was established in 2012 as a platform for border management and consultation.
