India and China today agreed to another meeting of senior commanders soon so as to work out further steps to expedite complete disengagement and de-escalation and restoration of peace and tranquillity in border areas. The decision was taken at the 17th meeting of the Working Mechanism for Consultation & Coordination on India-China Border Affairs (WMCC).
Reviewing the situation in the India-China border areas and the ongoing disengagement process along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) in the Western Sector, the two sides agreed that early and complete disengagement of troops along the LAC and de-escalation in accordance with bilateral agreement and protocols and full restoration of peace and tranquillity was essential for smooth development of bilateral ties.
The two sides noted that this was in accordance with the agreement reached between the two Special Representatives during their July 5 telephonic conversation, a Ministry of External Affairs statement said.
It was agreed that it was necessary for India and China to sincerely implement the understandings reached between senior commanders during their meetings till date.
The two sides also agreed to maintain their ongoing engagements, both at the diplomatic and military level.
The Indian delegation was led by Joint Secretary (East Asia). MEA, while the Director General of the Boundary and Oceanic Department of the Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs led the Chinese delegation. – TNS
