India-China tensions fuelled by mutual suspicion says Defence Chief

Stating that India and China were attempting to resolve border disputes along the LAC in Ladakh through diplomacy and talks, Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) General Bipin Rawat said that 'suspicion' on both sides was often the key factor in deciding how long talks would persist.

"These border issues have happened in the past and we have been able to resolve them. Since there is suspicion between the two countries, they take time to resolve," said Rawat at a function held in Guwahati. He also opined that the birder issue with China must be looked at from the point of view of two entire countries and not just North East or Ladakh.

Indian and Chinese forces have been locked in a stand-off since 2020, with a clash between border forces killing 20 Indian soldiers and 4 Chinese in February this year. Since then, India has boosted its military presence along the Himalayan border even as talks between the two countries remain stalled.

However, despite tensions prevailing, talks were progressing faster than they would have in earlier years Rawat said, recalling the Sumdurong Chu issue where India and China were locked in a face-off over a disputed river area along the border. Even that was successfully resolved and Indians should have faith in their military and government to ensure peace would prevail.