India and China failed to achieve a breakthrough to ease tension on the border in Ladakh during the 14th round of military-level talks on Wednesday. The two sides agreed to meet again to find a solution to the face-off persisting at several points.
The Corps Commander-level talks were held on the Chinese side of the Line of Actual Control (LAC) in Chushul sector of Eastern Ladakh. The Indian side was led by 14 Corps chief Lt General Anindiya Sengupta.
The talks lasted for more than 12 hours and ended at 10.30 pm.
The joint statement released on Thursday said the representatives from the defense and foreign affairs establishments of the two sides were present at the meeting. The two sides had a frank and in-depth exchange of views for the resolution of the relevant issues along the LAC in the Western Sector, it said.
Both sides agreed to follow the guidance provided by the State leaders and work for the resolution of the remaining issues at the earliest. It was noted that this would help in the restoration of peace and tranquillity along the LAC in the Western Sector and enable progress in bilateral relations.
The two sides also agreed to consolidate on the previous outcomes and take effective efforts to maintain the security and stability on the ground in the Western Sector including during winter. The two sides agreed to stay in close contact and maintain dialogue via military and diplomatic channels and work out a mutually acceptable resolution of the remaining issues at the earliest. In this context, it was also agreed that the next round of the Commanders’ talks should be held at the earliest.
Army Chief General MM Naravane had said on Wednesday that results cannot be expected during every round of talks on such an issue. He also said both the sides try to understand each other’s perceptions and differences of opinion.