Image Credit: https://www.pmindia.gov.in/
“Military Worked in Unimaginable Conditions” Amid China Border Pact
External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar emphasized the pivotal role played by India’s military in securing the recent patrolling agreement with China in Eastern Ladakh.
Speaking at FLAME University in Pune on Saturday, Jaishankar noted that despite the breakthrough, rebuilding trust between India and China will take time, given the strained relations since 2020.
Diplomatic and Military Coordination
Jaishankar highlighted how the military’s ability to “stand its ground” in extreme conditions helped India negotiate effectively with China. The disengagement in Depsang and Demchok, agreed upon on October 21, allows for the resumption of patrolling in these areas, as it was before the 2020 border tensions.
“From 2020, the situation at the border has been very disturbed and that has, understandably, had a very negative impact on the overall relationship. Since September 2020, we have been negotiating with the Chinese on how to find a solution.”
Focus on Border Infrastructure
The minister also underscored the importance of infrastructure improvements in India’s border areas over the last decade. He explained that increased resources have enabled better military deployment, which was crucial for maintaining India’s position during negotiations.
Future of India-China Relations
Regarding the future of India-China relations, Jaishankar urged patience, stating that it will take time to restore trust and stability. He stressed that ongoing diplomatic efforts and continued military readiness are key to managing this complex relationship.
“I think it is a bit early. We have to wait for things to settle themselves. Because, after four years of a very disturbed border where peace and tranquillity have been shattered, it will naturally take time to rebuild a degree of trust and a willingness to work with each other.”
“If we have reached where we have today, there are two reasons for it. The first is a very determined effort on our part to stand our ground and make our point and this would only happen because the military was there in very, very unimaginable conditions to defend the country. The military did its part and diplomacy did its part,”
