Never closed the doors of talks with Pakistan, more troops on LAC is not in the interest of both, Jaishankar’s statement on the border dispute will stop both the countries from talking.

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar expressed concern over the ongoing tension between India and China, saying that this situation has not benefited any country. Speaking at a panel discussion, Jaishankar addressed the strained India-China relations and the need to de-escalate forces along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) and maintain existing agreements. I think it is in our common interest that we should not have so many forces on the Line of Actual Control. I think it is in our common interest that we should abide by the agreements that we have signed. I believe this is not just in the common interest, I believe this is in China’s interest as well,” Jaishankar said. The tension we have seen for the last four years has not benefited either of us.

The External Affairs Minister stressed India’s commitment to seek a fair and rational solution to the border dispute that respects previously signed agreements and accepts the LAC without attempting to change the status quo. “The sooner we get this sorted out, I really think it’s better for both of us,” he said. I am still committed to finding a fair, just outcome. But one that respects agreements recognizes the Line of Actual Control and does not demand it. To change the status quo. I think it will be good for both of us.

The comments come amid a nearly four-year-long dispute between India and China over some friction points in eastern Ladakh following the Galwan Valley clash in June 2020. India and China have participated in several rounds of diplomatic and high-level military talks to resolve the standoff, but without much success. Both sides have agreed to maintain “peace and tranquility” on the ground.