In the first signs of de-escalation after the June 15 clash, Chinese troops are believed to have moved back in both Galwan and Pangong Tso areas. Based on preliminary verification, India and China are likely to acknowledge discernible progress in the disengagement talks through official statements soon.
ET has reliably gathered that both sides are in touch through diplomatic channels to work out agreed statements that will take the process forward. This would include planning for Special Representative-level talks as per the original schedule, which may require National Security Advisor Ajit Doval to travel to China.
Top official sources told IANS that both sides retreated two kilometres simultaneously on Sunday, following several rounds of talks which had begun after the clash on June 15. The disengagement between Indian and the People’s Liberation Army (PLA) happened as per the agreed terms in the Corps Commander’s meeting.
National Security Advisor (NSA) Ajit Doval held talks with Chinese Foreign Minister and State Councilor Wang Yi over video call yesterday.
NSA Ajit Doval and Chinese State Councillor and Minister of Foreign Affairs Wang Yi had a telephone conversation yesterday. They had a frank and in-depth exchange of views on the recent developments in the Western Sector of the India-China border areas, Ministry of External Affais (MEA) said.
The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said that Doval and Wang, during the talks, have agreed that it was necessary to ensure at the earliest the complete disengagement of the troops along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) and de-escalation from India-China border areas for full restoration of peace and tranquillity.
Meanwhile, Indian Army sources said that mutual disengagement between India and China has started at friction points along the Line of Actual Control in the Eastern Ladakh sector.
The Chinese Army has moved back tents, vehicles, and troops by 1-2 kilometers from locations where disengagement was agreed upon at Corps Commander-level talks, Indian Army sources said on Monday.India has also moved 1-2 Km from the location. Chinese heavy armoured vehicles are still present in the depth areas in the Galwan river area.