LAC tensions must end for better ties

Indian foreign secretary Vikram Misri visited Beijing last week marking another step towards restoring normalcy between the two nations.

- HARSHA KAKAR

This followed interactions between the foreign ministers and the NSAs, post the resolution of standoffs along the LAC and restoration of patrolling rights. No joint statement was issued following the visit.

The Indian MEA readout mentioned that the two nations agreed to recommence the Mansarovar Yatra, resume provision of hydrological data and 'other cooperation pertaining to trans-border rivers'. It also added acceptance of promoting media and think-tank interactions while 'agreeing in principle' to resume direct air services.

The Global Times quoted Wang Yi, the Chinese foreign minister as saying "The improvement and development of China-India relations is fully in line with the fundamental interests of the two countries and their peoples." It quoted Wang Yi as saying that the two sides should, "commit themselves to mutual understanding, mutual support and mutual achievement, rather than mutual suspicion, alienation and mutual depletion." In reality mutual suspicion continues to guide relations.

There were differences in readouts too. The Indian side mentioned raising existing Chinese trade barriers impacting Indian exports, which was missing in the Chinese statement. India is also concerned by the growing trade imbalance. Similarly, the Chinese statement mentioned Indian support to the Chinese presidency of the SCO (Shanghai Cooperation Organization) as also its participation in all its meetings. This was missing in the Indian official release.

While diplomatically and economically the two nations appear to be moving ahead, militarily, they are not. As far as the LAC is concerned, the reality is vastly different. The relationship basically plummeted because of Chinese military actions along the LAC. India rightly continues being suspicious of Chinese intent.