What is the issue?
- There were talks between the Defence Ministers of India and China in Moscow, Russia.
- But, the prospects of an imminent diplomatic solution to the continuing stand-off along the LAC do not appear bright.
- Both India and China have issued statements in the Moscow meet.
- These statements underlined the differences in how India and China viewed the unprecedented developments along the LAC since May 2020.
- [LAC – Line of Actual Control, the border between India and China.]
- India’s statements - Defence Minister Rajnath Singh emphasized that China’s actions were in violation of the bilateral agreements.
- He also expressed hope that both sides would be able to resolve the ongoing situation peacefully through dialogue.
- China’s statements - China’s Defence Minister, General Wei Fenghe, said that it had no blame to bear for this summer’s developments.
- He said that the responsibility lies entirely with the Indian side.
- He called on India to immediately withdraw its troops.
- He also added that both sides should stay committed to resolving the issue through dialogue and consultation.
What is the problem?
- China’s consistent labelling of India as the aggressor contradicts the reality, as India has ceded some of its territories in Ladakh to China.
- The problem has been a stark mismatch between China’s statements and the actions of its troops.
- China’s diplomats have spoken repeatedly of the need to keep in mind the big picture of bilateral ties.
- But, the actions of its military on the ground emphasize on achieving tactical gains at the border over the broader strategic relationship.
- Until that calculus changes, India will have to be prepared to be tested along the border and to stand its ground over the long haul.
What could be done?
- Military talks can occasionally help to avert a flare-up.
- But, the two neighbours need to work toward a diplomatic solution to ensure undisturbed peace and quiet along the border.
- Both sides will have the chance to reassess the situation at Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Foreign Ministers’ meet.
Source: The Hindu
