India, China discuss border disputes, diplomatic ties

Indian and Chinese officials held constructive talks in New Delhi on the possibilities of deescalating the border tension and restoring normalcy in diplomatic relations. In the framework of the 30th meeting of the Working Mechanism for Consultation and Coordination on India-China Border Affairs, delegations from both the countries held in-depth, constructive and forward-looking discussions, a statement from the India Ministry of External Affairs said on Wednesday. "The two sides reviewed the current situation along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) with a view to finding an early resolution of the outstanding issues. "Restoration of peace and tranquility, and respect for the LAC are an essential basis for restoration of normalcy in bilateral relations," according to the statement. Both the delegations underlined the need of jointly upholding peace and tranquility in the border areas in accordance with bilateral agreements, protocols and understandings agreed upon in the past by the two governments. "Both si des agreed to maintain the momentum through the established diplomatic and military channels," it added. Joint Secretary for East Asia at the Ministry of External Affairs Gourangalal Das led the Indian delegation while Director General of the Boundary and Oceanic Department of the Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs Hong Liang headed the Chinese team. India and China are engaged in long standing territorial disputes over vast areas spanning across Indian states of Ladakh, Jammu and Kashmir and Arunachal Pradesh. Bloody clashes often erupt between the border forces of both countries claiming violation of borders. Source: Kuwait News Agency