After months of tensions along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) between India and China, Indian Army Chief General Upendra Dwivedi has confirmed a patrolling agreement has been reached between the two countries. The goal is to return military ties between the two nations to pre-April 2020 levels. However, the Army Chief also pointed out the need for rebuilding trust between the two forces in order to successfully restore the status quo. This confirmation comes days after Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri announced a patrolling agreement and ongoing efforts to resolve the tension that began in May 2020.
India and China Reach Patrolling Agreement to Ease LAC Tensions
Background
Tensions have been simmering along the Line of Actual Control (LAC), the disputed border between India and China, since May 2020. Skirmishes between the two armies have resulted in casualties on both sides and raised fears of a wider conflict.
Patrolling Agreement
According to Indian Army Chief General Upendra Dwivedi, a patrolling agreement has been reached between India and China. The agreement aims to return military ties to pre-April 2020 levels. This move represents a significant step towards de-escalating tensions.
Building Trust
General Dwivedi emphasized the need for rebuilding trust between the two forces in order to successfully restore the status quo. This will likely involve a series of confidence-building measures and ongoing dialogue.
Foreign Secretary's Announcement
Days before the Army Chief's confirmation, Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri announced a patrolling agreement and ongoing efforts to resolve the tension. This suggests that diplomatic channels have also been playing a role in easing tensions.
Top 5 FAQs and Answers
1. What is the Line of Actual Control (LAC)? The LAC is the unmarked boundary separating the Indian state of Jammu and Kashmir from the Chinese-controlled Aksai Chin. It is disputed by both countries.
2. When did tensions escalate along the LAC? Tensions escalated in May 2020 after a clash in the Galwan Valley, resulting in casualties on both sides.
3. What is the goal of the patrolling agreement? The patrolling agreement seeks to restore military ties between India and China to pre-April 2020 levels and de-escalate tensions.
4. What role has diplomacy played in easing tensions? Diplomatic channels have been involved in facilitating talks and negotiations between the two countries.
5. What is the next step in restoring the status quo? The next step involves rebuilding trust between the two forces through confidence-building measures and ongoing dialogue.
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