China Labels Border Dispute with India a 'Legacy Problem,' Not Reflective of Bilateral Relations

China's military labels the India-China border issue a 'legacy problem,' asserting it doesn't define bilateral ties. The statement follows the Galwan clash in 2020, and tensions persist as India presses for disengagement. China emphasizes differing perceptions and infrastructure development amid increased military deployments, complicating negotiations.

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China's military clarified that the ongoing border dispute with India is a historical issue and should not be linked to broader bilateral relations. Senior Colonel Wu Qian from the Chinese Ministry of National Defence addressed concerns about China's violation of bilateral consensus and the large military presence along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) in 2020. Wu reaffirmed China's claim on the Galwan Valley, blaming India for violating consensus and making unilateral provocations.

Despite the frozen relations since the Galwan clash in May 2020, Wu highlighted three years of communication and coordination between China and India. He urged India not to link the border issue with overall relations, emphasizing that it goes against the shared interests of both nations.

The People's Liberation Army (PLA) faces pressure from India to disengage from specific areas, while China insists on delinking the border issue from bilateral relations. The two militaries engaged in 20 rounds of Corps Commanders level meetings, resulting in disengagement from points like the Galwan Valley and Pangong Lake.

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A Pentagon report from the previous year revealed China's increased deployment of forces and infrastructure buildup near the LAC in 2022. The report mentioned ongoing border tensions, clashes, and military buildups due to differing perceptions on border demarcations. The Galwan clash in 2020 strained ties, with negotiations making minimal progress.

As the situation remains tense, China's military urges India to enhance strategic mutual trust, handle differences properly, and maintain peace in border areas. Information about the next India-China Corps Commander Level meeting is expected soon. The unresolved legacy border dispute continues to impact the overall bilateral relationship between China and India.