NEW DELHI, Dec 4: External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar stated on Wednesday that for India and China to foster stronger bilateral relations, maintaining peace and tranquility in border regions is essential. He announced that discussions would take place soon regarding de-escalation and effective management of activities along the border in light of recent developments in India-China relations during his address in the Rajya Sabha.
Following his remarks, a brief uproar erupted, leading to opposition MPs walking out after Chairman Jagdeep Dhankhar disallowed their requests for clarification.
In his statement on “Recent Developments in India’s Relations with China,” Jaishankar confirmed that a complete disengagement has been accomplished in eastern Ladakh through a step-by-step approach, concluding with Depsang and Demchok. He had previously articulated a similar statement in the Lok Sabha the day before.
Jaishankar emphasized that India is firm on three essential principles: firstly, both parties must respect and adhere to the Line of Actual Control (LAC); secondly, no unilateral attempts to change the status quo should be made; and thirdly, past agreements and understandings must be fully honored.
“While our relationship has advanced in various areas, it has been adversely impacted by recent events. We are determined that peace and tranquility in border areas are crucial for our relationship’s development. In the upcoming discussions, we will address both de-escalation and effective management of our activities in these regions,” he stated.
He added that with the disengagement process completed, discussions regarding the remaining agenda items are expected to begin soon.
“Now that we have concluded the disengagement phase, we can consider additional aspects of our bilateral engagement in a systematic way, prioritizing our national security interests,” he noted.
Jaishankar’s comprehensive remarks followed the completion of the troop disengagement from the last two confrontation sites in eastern Ladakh, which effectively concludes a military standoff that has persisted for over four years along the LAC.
“Our next focus will be on de-escalation efforts, particularly addressing the concentration of troops along the LAC and related matters,” he added.
Once the Minister finished his statement, opposition leaders sought clarifications, which were denied by the Chair, prompting a brief disturbance in the House.
“Repeatedly, I have emphasized that we are under national scrutiny and our behavior is undermining the significance of this institution, which is designed for debate but is currently lacking one,” Dhankhar remarked as opposition members insisted that the minister respond to their inquiries.
“The guideline on statements is clear. The Minister has taken the House into confidence and can elaborate as much as necessary,” he stated.
In response, opposition MPs left the House in protest.
Following this, the House proceeded to discuss The Boilers Bill. (Agencies)
