India, China Agree to Start Border Delimitation Process

India and China have agreed to begin delimiting parts of their disputed border, marking a breakthrough in resolving the decades-old boundary issue. With a phased technical process and mutual withdrawal of heavy weaponry, both sides are moving towards de-escalation and normalization ahead of the Modi-Xi meeting in Tianjin.

India and China have taken a decisive step towards resolving their long-standing boundary dispute. Following the 24th round of Special Representative talks in New Delhi, National Security Advisor Ajit Doval and Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi agreed to begin the delimitation process for less contentious sectors of the border.

The agreement marks the most significant progress since the 2020 clashes in Ladakh. Both sides have consented to adopt a non-offensive posture along the Line of Actual Control (LAC), signaling a shift from confrontation to cautious cooperation. Prime Minister Narendra Modi also held discussions with Wang Yi, underlining the importance of political will in advancing the talks.

The plan involves a phased approach. First, a technical expert group will be set up under the Working Mechanism for Consultation and Coordination to examine border tracts with minimal friction. Next, the two sides will identify land areas suitable for delimitation, followed by a formal demarcation with boundary pillars. This gradual, piece-meal strategy is aimed at building trust while avoiding flashpoints.

In parallel, India and China have agreed to withdraw heavy weaponry, including tanks and artillery, from sensitive points in Ladakh. This de-escalation move is designed to prevent future military confrontations, acknowledging the contrasting geographies on both sides of the border.

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Diplomatic observers see the development as an effort to restore relations to pre-2020 levels. The process is expected to gain momentum when Prime Minister Modi meets President Xi Jinping at the upcoming SCO summit in Tianjin on August 31. While challenges remain, especially over contested buffer zones, the latest talks reflect a renewed commitment to peace and stability in the region.