Indian and Chinese Armies Celebrate Diwali with Sweet Exchange
In a gesture of goodwill, Indian and Chinese army troops exchanged sweets at several border points in Ladakh on the occasion of Diwali. The exchange took place at Hot Springs, Karakoram Pass, Daulat Beg Oldi, KongkLa, and Chushul-Moldo.
Progress in Disengagement Process
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh announced that the disengagement process along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) in eastern Ladakh is nearly complete. Speaking at the Bob Khathing Museum inauguration in Assam, he mentioned ongoing discussions between India and China to resolve conflicts, emphasizing a consensus based on mutual security.
Chinese Ambassador’s Remarks
Chinese Ambassador to India, Xu Feihong, acknowledged the natural differences between neighboring countries but stressed the importance of handling these differences effectively. He expressed optimism for smooth cooperation between India and China in various fields.
Background of the Border Standoff
The border standoff began in 2020 due to Chinese military actions in eastern Ladakh, leading to prolonged tensions. Chief of Army Staff, General Upendra Dwivedi, highlighted the gradual process of restoring trust along the LAC, focusing on disengagement, de-escalation, and buffer zone management.
Doubts Revealed
Ladakh -: Ladakh is a region in the northern part of India, known for its beautiful mountains and cold desert. It shares a border with China, which is why it’s important in discussions between the two countries.
Diwali -: Diwali is a major festival in India, also known as the Festival of Lights. People celebrate it by lighting lamps, bursting crackers, and exchanging sweets and gifts.
LAC -: LAC stands for Line of Actual Control. It is the border that separates Indian-controlled territory from Chinese-controlled territory in the region of Ladakh.
Disengagement process -: The disengagement process refers to the steps taken by both Indian and Chinese armies to move back their troops from the border areas to reduce tensions and avoid conflicts.
Chinese Ambassador Xu Feihong -: Xu Feihong is a representative of China in India. Ambassadors work to maintain good relations between their home country and the country they are stationed in.
Border standoff -: A border standoff is a situation where two countries have their armies facing each other at the border, often due to disagreements or tensions. The standoff between India and China began in 2020.
