External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar addressed the Lok Sabha on Tuesday, providing updates on India-China relations and the disengagement process along the Line of Actual Control (LAC). He reaffirmed India’s commitment to bilateral discussions aimed at achieving a “fair, reasonable, and mutually acceptable framework for a boundary settlement.”
Abnormal Relations Since 2020
Jaishankar described the bilateral ties as “abnormal” since 2020, following China’s actions that disrupted peace along the border.
“Recent developments that reflect our continuous diplomatic engagement since then have set our ties in the direction of some improvement,” he said.
Disengagement Achieved, Focus on De-escalation
Jaishankar emphasized that the disengagement phase is complete, allowing for discussions on de-escalation.
“The conclusion of the disengagement phase now allows us to consider other aspects of our bilateral engagement in a calibrated manner, keeping our national security interests first and foremost,” he stated.
He also noted that during his recent meeting with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi, an understanding was reached to reconvene the Special Representatives and Foreign Secretary-level mechanisms.
2020 Galwan Clashes and Historical Context
Recalling the 2020 Galwan Valley clashes, Jaishankar outlined the government’s swift counter-deployment to address the unprecedented situation.
“The House is well aware of the circumstances leading up to the violent clashes in Galwan Valley in June 2020, resulting in fatalities for the first time in 45 years,” he said.
Jaishankar highlighted agreements dating back to 1988 aimed at maintaining peace along the LAC and emphasized the importance of adhering to these agreements to restore trust.
Three Key Principles for Relations
He underlined three principles critical to maintaining relations:
- Respecting and observing the LAC.
- Avoiding unilateral changes to the status quo.
- Fully abiding by past agreements and understandings.
Recent Diplomatic Efforts
Jaishankar mentioned Defence Minister Rajnath Singh’s recent meeting with Chinese counterpart Admiral Dong Jun during the ASEAN Defence Ministers Meeting Plus in Laos. Singh emphasized the need to transition from disengagement to de-escalation to rebuild trust.
Parliamentary Developments
The winter session of Parliament commenced on November 25 and will run until December 20. However, proceedings have faced disruptions due to opposition demands for discussions on the Adani indictment.
Jaishankar’s remarks reflect India’s balanced approach to restoring peace and normalcy in bilateral relations while safeguarding national interests.