Following a recent encounter between Indian shepherds and Chinese soldiers near the Line of Actual Control (LAC) in eastern Ladakh, the Ministry of External Affairs clarified on Thursday that both sides are cognizant of the traditional grazing areas, and any instances of friction are addressed through established mechanisms. The reported incident involved Chinese soldiers halting shepherds in an area south of Chushul in eastern Ladakh last month.
A video of the confrontation, purportedly captured by locals, was shared on social media by a Chushul councillor. Responding to inquiries about the incident, External Affairs Ministry spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal stated during a media briefing, "The two sides are aware of the traditional grazing areas in the border areas. Any incident of friction is dealt with traditional mechanisms as appropriate."
The standoff between Indian and Chinese troops in eastern Ladakh has persisted for over three years, despite disengagement in several areas following extensive diplomatic and military dialogues. India emphasizes that normalized relations with China hinge on peace in the border regions.
Originating from a clash in the Pangong Lake area on May 5, 2020, the eastern Ladakh border standoff has endured. Addressing India's participation in a regional conclave organized by the Taliban in Kabul, Jaiswal explained, "We have been attending several meetings on Afghanistan in various formats, both at the regional and international level." He emphasized India's long-standing friendship with the Afghan people and its humanitarian assistance efforts in the country. Regarding the specific meeting in Kabul, Jaiswal urged viewing it in the context of India's ongoing engagement and support in Afghanistan.
(With Agency Inputs)
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