Singh’s statement comes a day after Indian and Chinese troops along the border in Ladakh initiated the process of disengagement.
New Delhi: Defence minister Rajnath Singh informed the parliament that disengagement at LAC in north and south Pangong lake area began on Wednesday.
The two sides have been locked in a stand-off along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) in the region since May 2020.
“Our sustained talks with China have led to agreement on disengagement on the north and south banks of Pangong Lake. After this agreement, India-China will remove forward deployments in a phased, coordinated manner,” Singh said, adding that India is committed to maintaining bilateral ties and peace along the LAC.
Singh’s statement comes a day after Indian and Chinese troops along the border in Ladakh initiated the process of disengagement.
“We are committed to maintaining a peaceful situation at the Line of Control. India has always emphasised on maintaining bilateral ties. Our sustained talks with China have led to agreement on disengagement on the north and south banks of Pangong Lake. After this agreement, India-China will remove forward deployments in a phased, coordinated manner,” Singh said in Rajya Sabha.
“Our security forces have proved that they are ready to face any challenge to protect the sovereignty of the country. Indian armed forces dealt with situation in eastern Ladakh effectively and maintained their edge.”
The defence minister informed the Upper House that India has asked China to accept and respect the LAC, not take any steps to unilaterally change the status quo at the border and follow the rules of engagement, and stated that all compromises should be completely agreed upon by both sides.
Singh is also expected to address the Lok Sabha about the “present situation in Eastern Ladakh” at 5.30 pm on February 11.