China seeks flag meet amid lingering border standoff

The People’s Liberation Army has sought a flag meeting with the Indian Army amidst the continuing standoff in the sensitive Ladakh sector, a move that could help ease tensions along the disputed border.

The People’s Liberation Army has sought a flag meeting with the Indian Army amidst the continuing standoff in the sensitive Ladakh sector, a move that could help ease tensions along the disputed border.

HT Image

The development is being viewed in some quarters as China climbing down from its stiff position as the Indian Army had decided not to ask for another flag meeting after two previous attempts to end the stalemate failed.

The Indian Army is considering China’s request for a flag meeting, which could take place this week.

An army source, however, said the move could not be seen as China softening its position as the agenda for the meeting between local commanders was yet to be shared.

The Indian position is that the status quo of September 10 be restored unconditionally.

The situation along the disputed Line of Actual Control (LAC) remained tense on Tuesday, with the military standoff in Chumar area entering its 13th day.

More than 1,000 Indian and Chinese soldiers continue to be involved in the faceoff, with both armies refusing to back off from the positions held by them.

The soldiers have pitched tents at their respective locations to beat sub-zero temperatures.

The two armies were locked in a bitter three-week standoff in Depsang last April-May.

Intense diplomatic efforts and five flag meetings led to soldiers from both sides pulling out simultaneously from the faceoff site.