India and China Exchange Diwali Greetings Amid Border Disengagement Progress

The Indian and Chinese armies exchanged sweets and greetings at the Chushul-Moldo border point in eastern Ladakh on Diwali, sustaining a gesture of goodwill despite the cautious and ongoing disengagement process along the Line of Actual Control (LAC). This gesture reflects a long-standing tradition between the two armies even as both nations work through complex border tensions.

On Thursday, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh provided an update on the progress along the LAC, stating that the disengagement process is nearing completion, driven by mutual agreements to restore stability along the contested borders. Speaking at the inauguration of the Bob Khathing Museum in Tezpur, Assam, Singh noted that recent dialogues have shown signs of cooperation, with both diplomatic and military efforts focused on restoring peace along the LAC. “Our aim is not only disengagement but lasting peace,” Singh remarked, emphasizing the government’s dedication to easing border conflicts.

Chinese Ambassador to India Xu Feihong also addressed the significance of resolving India-China border issues, asserting that while differences may arise naturally between neighboring countries, addressing them is essential for stable relations. As disengagement progresses in key regions such as Depsang and Demchok, Xu expressed optimism for stronger collaboration in areas like politics, trade, and education.

The 2020 standoff along the LAC marked a significant strain in India-China relations, leading to ongoing strategic and tactical concerns. Chief of Army Staff General Upendra Dwivedi highlighted the importance of a phased approach to rebuilding trust, recommending sequential steps of disengagement, de-escalation, and the establishment of buffer zones to reestablish the pre-2020 status quo.