THE TALK AND DETER APPROACH

INDIA SHOULD COLLABORATE BUT NOT LET CHINA HOLD ITS INTERESTS TO RANSOM

- By VIJAY GOKHALE

The successful conclusion of negotiations between India and China on the disengagement of military forces in disputed pockets of east Ladakh after more than 48 tense months marks the beginning of a process that might, hopefully, arrive at a new set of arrangements to manage the boundary dispute. Aside from the practical difficulties involved in negotiating a broader de-escalation in east Ladakh that guarantees equal and mutual security, working toward a mutual agreement on a new framework for peace and tranquility would also be a priority in the year ahead. Absent real trust, this might seem a difficult task, but there is mature leadership on both sides to take this process forward.