India, China agree to begin work on delimiting less contentious parts of border

PTC Web Desk: India and China have recorded a breakthrough in their long-standing boundary dispute, with both sides agreeing to begin work on delimiting less contentious parts of the border. The development came during the 24th round of Special Representative talks between India’s National Security Advisor Ajit Doval and visiting Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi on Tuesday.

According to sources, the two leaders identified three relatively easier sectors of the border for step-by-step delimitation and eventual demarcation. This marks the first forward movement in years towards a permanent resolution of the India-China border issue.

The process will unfold in stages: Formation of a technical expert group under the Working Mechanism for Consultation and Coordination on India-China Border Affairs (WMCC), led by a Joint Secretary from India’s Ministry of External Affairs.

Selection of border stretches with minimal disputes to serve as starting points.

Delimitation of these areas on maps with mutual consent.

Final demarcation on the ground, including the placement of boundary pillars.

This piecemeal approach aims to build confidence between the two countries, rather than waiting for a full-fledged settlement of the entire border dispute.

Steps towards de-escalation in Eastern Ladakh

Both countries have also agreed to continue measures for de-escalation following the 2020 Galwan Valley clashes. While the issue of buffer zones in contested areas is still pending, India and China are moving towards adopting a non-offensive military posture in Eastern Ladakh and other sensitive zones.

This will involve pulling back heavy weaponry such as tanks, artillery, and rocket systems to positions that pose no immediate threat. The adjustment also takes into account the stark geographical differences: India’s rugged Ladakh mountains versus China’s flat Tibetan plateau, which allows faster troop mobilization by the PLA.

The agreement signals a return to the pre-2020 era of engagement, as both sides emphasize maintaining peace and stability along the Line of Actual Control (LAC). While India remains cautious of China’s influence in Pakistan and across South Asia, the decision to move forward stems from the Modi-Xi meeting held on October 23, 2024.

With Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Xi Jinping scheduled to meet again on August 31 at the SCO Summit in Tianjin, the stage appears set for India and China to pursue a more practical and cooperative relationship, balancing competition with common interests.