India, China hold constructive talks on LAC standoff

India and China held “constructive and forward-looking” diplomatic talks on Wednesday in New Delhi to address the ongoing border standoff along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) in eastern Ladakh. The discussions took place under the Working Mechanism for Consultation and Coordination on India-China Border Affairs (WMCC) framework.The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) stated that the two nations reviewed the current situation along the LAC with the aim of finding an early resolution to the outstanding issues. The MEA emphasized that the restoration of peace and tranquillity, as well as respect for the LAC, are vital for normalizing bilateral relations.

“Restoration of peace and tranquillity, and respect for the LAC are an essential basis for restoration of normalcy in bilateral relations,” the MEA said.

The MEA added that both sides agreed on the importance of jointly maintaining peace and stability in the border areas, in accordance with existing bilateral agreements, protocols, and understandings.

“They agreed on the need to jointly uphold peace and tranquillity on the ground in the border areas in accordance with relevant bilateral agreements, protocols and understandings reached between the two governments,” it said in a statement.

The ministry described the discussions as “in-depth, constructive and forward-looking” and noted that both countries agreed to continue the momentum through established diplomatic and military channels.”The discussion at the meeting was in-depth, constructive and forward-looking. Both sides agreed to maintain the momentum through the established diplomatic and military channels,” the ministry said.