The India-China border dispute has been a long-standing issue between the two Asian neighbours. To maintain stability along the disputed border, the Working Mechanism for Consultation and Coordination on India-China Border Affairs (WMCC) was established in 2012. It is a diplomatic channel to discuss and resolve border-related issues between the two countries. The recent 26th WMCC meeting was held in Beijing and was the first in-person meeting since 2019. The meeting saw no immediate breakthrough in the border tensions.
Background of the WMCC
The WMCC was established as part of the Agreement on Border Defence Cooperation signed by India and China in 2013. The main objective of the mechanism is to facilitate regular and institutionalized exchanges between the two countries about border-related issues. It provides a platform for both sides to discuss and resolve their differences on the border issue through diplomatic channels.
The mechanism is led by the Special Representatives of the two countries on the boundary question. The Indian side is represented by the National Security Advisor, while the Chinese side is represented by the State Councillor. The mechanism also includes representatives from the Foreign Ministries, Defence Ministries, and border guarding forces of both countries.
Functioning of the WMCC
The WMCC meets at least once a year, alternating between India and China. During the meeting, both sides discuss border-related issues, including maintaining peace and tranquility along the border, strengthening border management, and enhancing mutual trust and confidence.
The mechanism also provides for regular meetings between the border guarding forces of both countries. These meetings aim to enhance communication and coordination between the forces and prevent any incidents along the border.
The WMCC has been instrumental in resolving several border incidents between India and China. In 2013, the mechanism helped resolve the Depsang Valley incident, where Chinese troops had intruded into Indian territory. Similarly, in 2014, the mechanism helped resolve the Chumar incident, where Chinese troops had blocked Indian patrols from accessing their traditional patrol routes along the border.
Recent Developments in the WMCC
The 2020 border stand-off in eastern Ladakh was a major test for the WMCC mechanism. During the stand-off, 11 WMCC meetings were held through video conferencing to resolve the issue. However, the meetings did not yield any significant breakthrough, and tensions continued to simmer along the border.
The recent 26th WMCC meeting was held in Beijing, and it was the first in-person meeting since 2019. The Indian side was represented by the Foreign Secretary, while the Chinese side was represented by the Vice Foreign Minister. During the meeting, both sides reiterated their commitment to resolving the border issue through dialogue and peaceful means.
