"Will work with India to implement solution with regards to LAC patrolling agreement": China

China announced on Tuesday, October 22 that it has reached a significant resolution with India to address the longstanding border conflict, pledging to work collaboratively to implement the agreed-upon measures. This development was confirmed by Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian, who stated during a routine press briefing, "We have reached a resolution on the relevant matter, and will work with the Indian side to implement the solution. We are in close communication through diplomatic and military channels."

The announcement comes just a day after India’s Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) revealed that an agreement had been reached regarding new patrolling protocols along the Line of Actual Control (LAC), the de facto border between the two nations. This understanding aims to address the military standoff that has persisted since 2020, when heightened tensions along the LAC resulted in deadly skirmishes, particularly the violent clashes in June 2020 that saw casualties on both sides.

Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri provided further insights on October 21, explaining that the agreement follows several weeks of intensive discussions involving diplomatic and military representatives from both nations. "This agreement is the result of extensive dialogues with Chinese counterparts, conducted at various levels. Military commanders from both sides played a pivotal role in the negotiations, aimed at reducing border tensions and preventing further confrontations," Misri stated.

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The latest arrangement is viewed as a pathway toward disengagement, reflecting a mutual commitment to stabilize relations and avoid future escalation. According to Misri, the resolution marks a crucial step in addressing the issues that emerged during the 2020 confrontations and signifies a movement towards restoring normalcy along the disputed border. 

The timing of this breakthrough is noteworthy, coming just ahead of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s participation in the 16th BRICS Summit in Kazan, Russia. Scheduled from October 22 to October 24, the summit presents an opportunity for India and China to further engage in dialogue and explore avenues for regional cooperation amidst broader geopolitical discussions.

Both nations now face the challenge of implementing the agreement's terms, which include adjusting patrolling practices along the LAC to prevent future incidents. While the details of the new protocols remain undisclosed, officials suggest that the measures are designed to enhance communication between military units and establish a framework for resolving future disputes peacefully.