In his first comments on the India-China disengagement agreement, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh stated that a broad consensus has been reached to restore the ground situation based on principles of equal and mutual security. He mentioned that this consensus includes provisions for patrolling and grazing in traditional areas along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) in eastern Ladakh. This is the power of engaging in continuous dialogue because sooner or later, solutions will emerge, he said.
“India and China have been involved in talks both at diplomatic and military levels to resolve their differences in certain areas along the Line of Actual Control (LAC),” Singh said at Chanakya Defence Dialogue in New Delhi on Thursday. He asserted that the two countries have been involved in talks at diplomatic and military levels that led to broad consensus.
Speaking on the occasion, Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Upendra Dwivedi highlighted that the army not only provides a secure and safe environment for the people, but contributes immensely in every facet of development and growth trajectory such as economy, social cohesion, skill development and environment sustainability. He emphasised on ‘smart power’ an approach that combines diplomacy and development with military might, is essential for sustainable growth as reflected in the ongoing conflicts.
