China-India border talks: Chinese Defense Ministry rejects claims of stalled progress

The Chinese Defense Ministry on Thursday refuted the claim made by an Indian official that no progress had been made in the newest round of the China-India Corps Commander Level Meeting. During a news conference, Ministry of National Defense spokesperson Zhang Xiaogang responded to a reporter's inquiry about the assertion by an Indian Ministry of Home Affairs official.

The Indian official stated that during the 21st round of commander-level talks, "the Chinese military's stance had become tougher and continued to refuse India's request for disengagement along the Line of Actual Control in eastern Ladakh," leading to "no progress in the new round of talks."

Zhang emphasized that "such comments do not align with the facts," highlighting that the overall situation at the China-India border is stable. He pointed out that effective communication is being maintained between the two sides through diplomatic and military channels.

The spokesperson mentioned that the 21st round of the China-India Corps Commander Level Meeting took place at the Moldo-Chushul border meeting point on the Chinese side on Feb 19. Both sides engaged in positive, in-depth, and constructive communication to resolve issues of mutual concern along the border, agreeing to reach an acceptable solution as soon as possible.

"The Chinese side values the relationship between the two militaries and hopes that the Indian side will work with China to enhance mutual trust, properly handle differences, and jointly maintain peace and tranquility in the border area," Zhang said.