In an interaction with the Indian community in Kuala Lumpur, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar underscored the significance of restoring normalcy in bilateral ties with China, emphasizing the traditional deployment of troops as a prerequisite for future relations with Beijing.
Jaishankar affirmed his commitment to securing India’s borders, stating, “My first duty to Indians is to secure the border. I can never compromise on that.” He highlighted the ongoing negotiations with China, where both diplomatic and military channels are actively engaged.
Acknowledging the importance of maintaining good relations with neighbors, Jaishankar emphasized the necessity for a foundation in any relationship. He reiterated India’s stance on the Line of Actual Control (LAC), emphasizing the traditional deployment of troops as per past agreements.
The minister explained that despite boundary disputes, India and China had managed to build a substantial relationship since the late 1980s by agreeing not to escalate troop presence along the border. However, he lamented the breach of these agreements in 2020, leading to violence and bloodshed in the Galwan Valley.
The Galwan clash of June 2020 marked a significant downturn in bilateral ties, representing the most serious military conflict between India and China in over four decades.
Jaishankar’s remarks underscored India’s commitment to restoring stability and normalcy along the border, emphasizing the importance of adhering to past agreements for fostering constructive relations with China.
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