Says due to CBMs the border has largely been peaceful. The Ministry of External Affairs, like the Defence Ministry earlier, has played down recent scuffles between Indian and Chinese troops in two sectors of the Line of Actual Control (LAC).

In fact, due to several confidence-building measures between the two militaries, the India-China border has largely been peaceful, it noted while reacting to recent developments on the LAC.

The Ministry of Defense had sought to underline that though there are some portions on the LAC that have claims by both the sides, troops from both sides have acted with restraint.

The MEA also took a similar stand while reiterating that India “remains committed to the objective of maintaining peace and tranquillity in the India-China border areas”.

The dialling down of aggression took place a couple of days after India flew fighter jets over Ladakh in response to Chinese helicopters hovering near the disputed area.

The MEA said occasionally, on account of difference in perception of the alignment of the LAC, situations have arisen on the ground that could have been avoided if “we had a common perception of the LAC”. In this respect it recalled the mechanisms established by both sides to resolve such situations including border personnel meetings, flag meetings, and as well as diplomatic channels.

The MEA invoked the resolve expressed by Prime Minister Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping at their two informal summits to maintain peace and tranquillity in all areas of India-China border regions. “This is essential for the overall development of the bilateral relations,” it underlined.

It also recalled that the two leaders had also directed their militaries to earnestly implement various CBMs agreed upon between the two sides.

Courtesy: Daily Tribune:  15th May, 2020