The 32nd meeting of the Working Mechanism for Consultation and Coordination on India-China Border Affairs (WMCC) convened on December 5, 2024, in New Delhi. The Indian delegation was headed by Gourangalal Das, Joint Secretary (East Asia), while the Chinese side was led by Hong Liang, Director General of the Boundary and Oceanic Affairs Department of China’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, informed the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA).

Key Takeaways from the Meeting

  1. Disengagement Progress Affirmed
    The two sides positively acknowledged the successful implementation of the recent disengagement agreement, marking the resolution of issues that arose in 2020. This agreement is considered a significant step in reducing tensions along the Line of Actual Control (LAC).
  2. Preparation for Special Representatives’ Meeting
    Discussions also focused on preparing for the next meeting of the Special Representatives on Border Affairs, as decided by the leaders of India and China during their meeting in Kazan on October 23, 2024.
  3. Review of Border Area Developments
    The delegations reviewed the current situation along the border areas, reflecting on lessons learned from the 2020 events to prevent future escalations. Both nations underscored the importance of maintaining regular diplomatic and military-level exchanges through established mechanisms to ensure peace and stability.
  4. Commitment to Border Management
    India and China emphasised the need for effective border management and reiterated their commitment to maintaining peace and tranquillity along the LAC. This is to be achieved following relevant bilateral agreements, protocols, and understandings reached between the two governments over the years.

High-Level Diplomatic Engagements

During his visit, the leader of the Chinese delegation, Hong Liang, also called on the Indian Foreign Secretary to discuss broader aspects of bilateral relations and mutual cooperation.

The WMCC, established in 2012, plays a crucial role in addressing and resolving border-related issues through dialogue and coordination. This 32nd meeting reflects a mutual effort by both sides to normalise relations post-2020 and to avoid the recurrence of tensions.

As both nations continue to navigate their complex relationship, mechanisms like the WMCC and Special Representatives’ meetings remain pivotal in fostering dialogue, ensuring stability, and paving the way for a more cooperative future.