Acknowledging the shifting dynamics of power in the Indo-Pacific region, S Jaishankar, the External Affairs Minister, expressed concerns regarding China's behavior and its adherence to written agreements with neighboring countries. Speaking at the inaugural Raisina Roundtable in Tokyo, Jaishankar highlighted the significant changes in capabilities, influence, and aspirations of nations in the Indo-Pacific and emphasized the necessity to confront this reality.
Reflecting on India's relationship with China, Jaishankar noted a stark contrast from the past, mentioning a period of nearly 45 years without any bloodshed along the India-China border until 2020. He emphasized the importance of adhering to written agreements between nations, stating that the failure to do so raises doubts about the stability of the relationship and the intentions involved.
Jaishankar acknowledged the evolving global landscape and India's changing relationships with other countries, emphasizing the challenge of establishing new equilibriums with minimal friction. He underscored the need for strengthening border infrastructure while maintaining equilibrium in Sino-India relations.
The minister stressed the importance of China adhering to border management agreements and ensuring peace along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) to facilitate smoother ties between the two nations. These remarks follow the 21st round of the India-China Corps Commander Level Meeting, where both sides sought complete disengagement along the remaining areas of the LAC in eastern Ladakh to restore peace and tranquility in border areas.
Despite a border standoff that began in May 2020, culminating in a violent clash in the Pangong lake area, diplomatic efforts have led to significant progress in disengagement from several areas in 2021. Both countries have committed to maintaining communication through military and diplomatic channels to uphold peace and tranquility along the border.
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