India-China Disengagement Pact: Cautious Optimism

Whether temporary or not, the recent disengagement agreement between India and China is a welcome step amid regional tensions, often fueled by Anglo-American influences that require careful management.

Given the widespread strife, stabilizing ties with China appears favorable, though India remains wary. Xi's 2019 visit to Chennai was followed by the Galwan clash in 2020, raising questions about China's reliability. Both countries maintain a substantial military presence along their 2,100-mile (3,379-kilometer) undefined Line of Actual Control (LAC), a long-standing friction point since their 1962 conflict.

While this agreement on disengagement shows progress, experts believe further details are essential to assess its scope and any possible concessions. Key unresolved issues, such as troop de-induction, demobilization, and infrastructure adjustments, remain integral to a comprehensive resolution.

Although cautious optimism surrounds the current move, it's clear that managing the LAC remains crucial to minimizing tensions and maintaining regional stability.

C.K.S. MANIAM, NAVI MUMBAI