The recent development in Indo-China relations has witnessed the agreement of a five-point plan with the aim to disengage troops and deescalate tensions along the Line of Actual Control (LAC). With Indian and Chinese troops involved in a stand-off lasting over four months, this proposal surfaced after discussions between India’s External Affairs Minister and his Chinese equivalent. These discussions occurred on the sidelines of a Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) meeting in Russia.
The Five-Point Plan
The plan aims to guide the development of India-China relations based on the precedents set by the Wuhan and Mahabalipuram summits. This guidance includes not allowing differences to escalate into disputes. As part of the plan, border troops are encouraged to continue dialogue, disengage promptly, maintain appropriate distance and ease tensions.
Furthermore, both parties are to abide by all existing agreements and protocols concerning China-India boundary affairs. This includes refraining from actions that could potentially escalate matters. Continued communication through the Special Representatives mechanism and meetings of the Working Mechanism for Consultation and Coordination on border affairs is also emphasized.
The establishment of the Special Representatives (SRs) on the Boundary Question in 2003 has provided crucial guidance to ensure peace and tranquility in border areas in challenging situations. The Working Mechanism for Consultation and Coordination was established in 2012 and plays an important role. The plan also expresses intent to work towards concluding new confidence-building measures.
The Drive Behind the Talks
China had initially taken the stance that India had no choice but to accept its new claims at the LAC. However, after India demonstrated political resolve to escalate the conflict and showcased military capability, China was seemingly convinced to revisit their approach to the crisis.
Issues Yet to be Unraveled
Although the joint statement attempts to alleviate tension at the LAC, separate comments from both countries hint at upcoming challenges. While India insists on ‘restoring’ the status quo ante, China has not explicitly committed to this goal. China aims to keep the border conflict separate from the broader relationship, but India contends that the two are inseparably linked. Such differences continue to complicate the path towards comprehensive military disengagement and de-escalation.
Looking Ahead
Undoubtedly, the agreement of the five-point plan is a positive stride forward. However, in light of the sudden aggression by the People’s Liberation Army during April-May, India should maintain caution. It is critical to remember that this isn’t the first time that China promised to step down, only to quickly reverse their stance.
