Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Thursday (February 11) gave keys details regarding the disengagement agreement between India and China, in the Rajya Sabha. The agreement comes in the backdrop of the India-China standoff that started in April/May of 2020 that saw the death of 20 Indian soldiers in the Galwan Valley due to aggressive actions by Chinese forces, the first such development at the Line of Actual Control (LAC) since 1975. The Chinese Defence Ministry had made the announcement on the same on Wednesday (February 10).&nbsp;

Here are the key details spelt out by the Defence Minister:

1) Agreement for disengagement is for "North and South Bank" of the Pangong Lake. Pangong Lake is one of the sites of the stand-off, with the north bank having eight "fingers" or geographical formations with mountains spurs jutting into the lake, and the main point of contention for New Delhi.

2) Disengagement will be "mutual and reciprocal".

3) The implementation of this agreement started on Wednesday in the North and South Bank of the Pangong Lake. The tanks have started to move, and next up will the movement of soldiers.

4) Both sides will cease their "forward deployments" in the area. The process will take place in a "phased, coordinated and verified manner".

5) The most crucial point and one that forms the core of the development is -- The Chinese side will keep its troop presence in the North Bank area to the east of Finger 8. India, reciprocally, will base its troops at the permanent base -- Dhan Singh Thapa Post near Finger 3.

6) A similar action would be taken in the South Bank area by both sides. No details are known yet on how this will happen, in terms of movements of troops.

7) Any structures that had been built by both sides since April 2020 in both North and South Bank area will be removed and the landforms will be restored. April 2020 is the month that saw China amassing its troops and trying to unilaterally change the situation.

8) Both sides have agreed on a "temporary moratorium on military activities" by both sides in the North Bank of the lake. This includes a moratorium on patrolling to the traditional areas. Patrolling will be resumed only after both sides reach an agreement during further rounds of diplomatic and military talks.

9) Once "complete disengagement" has happened at Pangong Lake, Senior Commanders of both sides will meet within 48 hours. So far nine rounds of &nbsp;Senior Commanders meet or military talks have taken place, the last one being in January of this year.

10) &nbsp;New Delhi's message to China, by the Defence Minister from Parliament is, "By now, the Chinese side is also fully aware of our resolve. It is therefore our expectation that the Chinese side will work with us in full sincerity to resolve these remaining issues." He highlighted, " I want to assure this House that in these talks we have not conceded anything."

What next?

Some issue still remains. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh said, "there are still some outstanding issues with regard to deployment and patrolling" at some points along the LAC in Eastern Ladakh. They will be discussed during future India-China talks at the military and diplomatic level.

India is the Chair of the BRICS grouping this year. India is expected to hold a summit, the annual BRICS summit. If the summit happens physically then Chinese President Xi Jinping will be visiting India.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Thursday (February 11) gave keys details regarding the disengagement agreement between India and China, in the Rajya Sabha. The agreement comes in the backdrop of the India-China standoff that started in April/May of 2020 that saw the death of 20 Indian soldiers in the Galwan Valley due to aggressive actions by Chinese forces, the first such development at the Line of Actual Control (LAC) since 1975.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Thursday (February 11) gave keys details regarding the disengagement agreement between India and China, in the Rajya Sabha. The agreement comes in the backdrop of the India-China standoff that started in April/May of 2020 that saw the death of 20 Indian soldiers in the Galwan Valley due to aggressive actions by Chinese forces, the first such development at the Line of Actual Control (LAC) since 1975. The Chinese Defence Ministry had made the announcement on the same on Wednesday (February 10). Here are the key details spelt out by the Defence Minister: 1) Agreement for disengagement is for "North and South Bank" of the Pangong Lake. Pangong Lake is one of the sites of the stand-off, with the north bank having eight "fingers" or geographical formations with mountains spurs jutting into the lake, and the main point of contention for New Delhi. 2) Disengagement will be "mutual and reciprocal". 3) The implementation of this agreement started on Wednesday in the North and South Bank of the Pangong Lake. The tanks have started to move, and next up will the movement of soldiers. 4) Both sides will cease their "forward deployments" in the area. The process will take place in a "phased, coordinated and verified manner". 5) The most crucial point and one that forms the core of the development is -- The Chinese side will keep its troop presence in the North Bank area to the east of Finger 8. India, reciprocally, will base its troops at the permanent base -- Dhan Singh Thapa Post near Finger 3. 6) A similar action would be taken in the South Bank area by both sides. No details are known yet on how this will happen, in terms of movements of troops. 7) Any structures that had been built by both sides since April 2020 in both North and South Bank area will be removed and the landforms will be restored. April 2020 is the month that saw China amassing its troops and trying to unilaterally change the situation. 8) Both sides have agreed on a "temporary moratorium on military activities" by both sides in the North Bank of the lake. This includes a moratorium on patrolling to the traditional areas. Patrolling will be resumed only after both sides reach an agreement during further rounds of diplomatic and military talks. 9) Once "complete disengagement" has happened at Pangong Lake, Senior Commanders of both sides will meet within 48 hours. So far nine rounds of Senior Commanders meet or military talks have taken place, the last one being in January of this year. 10) New Delhi's message to China, by the Defence Minister from Parliament is, "By now, the Chinese side is also fully aware of our resolve. It is therefore our expectation that the Chinese side will work with us in full sincerity to resolve these remaining issues." He highlighted, " I want to assure this House that in these talks we have not conceded anything." What next? Some issue still remains. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh said, "there are still some outstanding issues with regard to deployment and patrolling" at some points along the LAC in Eastern Ladakh. They will be discussed during future India-China talks at the military and diplomatic level. India is the Chair of the BRICS grouping this year. India is expected to hold a summit, the annual BRICS summit. If the summit happens physically then Chinese President Xi Jinping will be visiting India.

India-China border disengagement: 10 key points of agreement

A day after China said it was pulling back troops from the Line of Actual Control (LAC), Tanks and infantry combat vehicles of India and China started disengaging from both the banks of Pangong lake as part of the disengagement process between the two countries.

Sources said under the first phase of disengagement, the tanks of India are being moved back towards Nyoma and adjoining areas while the Chinese are taking them back beyond Sirijap and Moldo garrison.

"The movement related to disengagement of tanks and infantry combat vehicles from forward positions to rear locations started last evening itself. The disengagement from the two banks of the Pangong lake is aimed to be completed within seven days," a source said.

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Watch: First video of disengagement between Indian &amp; Chinese forces in South of Pangong Lake. <a href="https://t.co/XW7fGseto2">pic.twitter.com/XW7fGseto2</a>
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After the first phase of disengagement is completed, the two sides would start discussing the other friction points including the Patrolling Point-17 and PP-15, they said.

Earlier in the day, India's defence minister Rajnath Singh speaking in Parliament asserted that, "Chinese transgression was answered in an appropriate manner by Indian forces." 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/india-china-standoff-why-area-along-pangong-lake-became-a-flash-point-362844">In Pics:&nbsp;Why area along Pangong lake became a flashpoint</a>

India's defence minister said disengagement with China has been agreed and both sides will reduce military activity. Rajnath Singh told Parliament that China will move its troops to the east of Finger 8 at the north bank of Pangong Lake and India will move towards Finger 3 to the administrative camp.

"China in April-May 2020 had increased the number of troops at LAC," India's defence minister told India's upper House of Parliament, adding, "our forces have defended LAC bravely."

"We've begun talks over north-south bank of Pangong Lake. Some issues over deployment at LAC are yet to be resolved, both sides have agreed that complete disengagement be done at the earliest," he said.&nbsp;

"Indian soldiers gave a befitting reply on the China border," Rajnath Singh said.

"India has always reiterated to China that bilateral issues can succeed only through efforts by both nations and border issues can only be resolved through dialogue," India's defence minister said, adding,"our security forces have proved that they are ready to face any challenge to protect the sovereignty of the country."

"We will not give one inch of land to anyone," Rajnath Singh said. &nbsp;India's defence minister said that disengagement along the LAC will bring peace.

(With inputs from agencies)

A day after China said it was pulling back troops from the Line of Actual Control (LAC), Tanks and infantry combat vehicles of India and China started disengaging from both the banks of Pangong lake as part of the disengagement process between the two countries.

A day after China said it was pulling back troops from the Line of Actual Control (LAC), Tanks and infantry combat vehicles of India and China started disengaging from both the banks of Pangong lake as part of the disengagement process between the two countries. Sources said under the first phase of disengagement, the tanks of India are being moved back towards Nyoma and adjoining areas while the Chinese are taking them back beyond Sirijap and Moldo garrison. "The movement related to disengagement of tanks and infantry combat vehicles from forward positions to rear locations started last evening itself. The disengagement from the two banks of the Pangong lake is aimed to be completed within seven days," a source said. Watch: First video of disengagement between Indian & Chinese forces in South of Pangong Lake. pic.twitter.com/XW7fGseto2 — Sidhant Sibal (@sidhant) February 11, 2021 × After the first phase of disengagement is completed, the two sides would start discussing the other friction points including the Patrolling Point-17 and PP-15, they said. Earlier in the day, India's defence minister Rajnath Singh speaking in Parliament asserted that, "Chinese transgression was answered in an appropriate manner by Indian forces." In Pics: Why area along Pangong lake became a flashpoint India's defence minister said disengagement with China has been agreed and both sides will reduce military activity. Rajnath Singh told Parliament that China will move its troops to the east of Finger 8 at the north bank of Pangong Lake and India will move towards Finger 3 to the administrative camp. "China in April-May 2020 had increased the number of troops at LAC," India's defence minister told India's upper House of Parliament, adding, "our forces have defended LAC bravely." "We've begun talks over north-south bank of Pangong Lake. Some issues over deployment at LAC are yet to be resolved, both sides have agreed that complete disengagement be done at the earliest," he said. "Indian soldiers gave a befitting reply on the China border," Rajnath Singh said. "India has always reiterated to China that bilateral issues can succeed only through efforts by both nations and border issues can only be resolved through dialogue," India's defence minister said, adding,"our security forces have proved that they are ready to face any challenge to protect the sovereignty of the country." "We will not give one inch of land to anyone," Rajnath Singh said. India's defence minister said that disengagement along the LAC will bring peace. (With inputs from agencies)

Watch: India-China disengagement begins as tanks, combat vehicles move back

A day after <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/chinas-army-claims-both-sides-start-withdrawal-along-pangong-lake-no-comment-from-india-362709">China </a>said it was pulling back troops from the Line of Actual Control(LAC), India's defence minister Rajnath Singh speaking in Parliament asserted that, "Chinese transgression was answered in an appropriate manner by Indian forces."

Watch:

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-china-begin-disengagement-at-pangong-tso-in-ladakh-sources-362708/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

India's defence minister said disengagement with China has been agreed and both sides will reduce military activity. Rajnath Singh told Parliament that China will move its troops to the east of Finger 8&nbsp;at the north bank of Pangong Lake&nbsp;and India will move towards Finger 3 to the administrative camp.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/india-china-standoff-why-area-along-pangong-lake-became-a-flash-point-362844">In Pics:&nbsp;Why area along Pangong lake became a flashpoint</a>

"China in April-May 2020 had increased the number of troops at LAC," India's defence minister told India's upper House of Parliament, adding, "our forces have defended LAC bravely."

"We've begun talks over north-south bank of Pangong Lake. Some issues over deployment at LAC are yet to be resolved, both sides have agreed that complete disengagement be done at the earliest," he said.&nbsp;

"Indian soldiers gave a befitting reply on the China border," Rajnath Singh said.

"India has always reiterated to China that bilateral issues can succeed only through efforts by both nations and border issues can only be resolved through dialogue," India's defence minister said, adding,"our security forces have proved that they are ready to face any challenge to protect the sovereignty of the country."

"We will not give one inch of land to anyone," Rajnath Singh said. &nbsp;India's defence minister said that disengagement along the LAC will bring peace.

"China has collected heavy force &amp; arms and ammunition near LAC and in the nearby area on its side. Our forces have also adequate and&nbsp;effectively done counter-deployment," India's defence minister said.

"Since last year, we have maintained relationship with China on military and&nbsp;diplomatic levels. During the talks, we told China that we want a solution on the issue based on three principles,"&nbsp;the defence minister said.

"First, both parties must agree on LAC and&nbsp;respect it. Secondly, there shouldn't be an attempt to change the status unilaterally, by any party. Thirdly, all the compromises should be completely agreed upon by both parties," he said.

A day after China said it was pulling back troops from the Line of Actual Control(LAC), India's defence minister Rajnath Singh speaking in Parliament asserted that, "Chinese transgression was answered in an appropriate manner by Indian forces.

A day after China said it was pulling back troops from the Line of Actual Control(LAC), India's defence minister Rajnath Singh speaking in Parliament asserted that, "Chinese transgression was answered in an appropriate manner by Indian forces." Watch: India's defence minister said disengagement with China has been agreed and both sides will reduce military activity. Rajnath Singh told Parliament that China will move its troops to the east of Finger 8 at the north bank of Pangong Lake and India will move towards Finger 3 to the administrative camp. In Pics: Why area along Pangong lake became a flashpoint "China in April-May 2020 had increased the number of troops at LAC," India's defence minister told India's upper House of Parliament, adding, "our forces have defended LAC bravely." "We've begun talks over north-south bank of Pangong Lake. Some issues over deployment at LAC are yet to be resolved, both sides have agreed that complete disengagement be done at the earliest," he said. "Indian soldiers gave a befitting reply on the China border," Rajnath Singh said. "India has always reiterated to China that bilateral issues can succeed only through efforts by both nations and border issues can only be resolved through dialogue," India's defence minister said, adding,"our security forces have proved that they are ready to face any challenge to protect the sovereignty of the country." "We will not give one inch of land to anyone," Rajnath Singh said. India's defence minister said that disengagement along the LAC will bring peace. "China has collected heavy force & arms and ammunition near LAC and in the nearby area on its side. Our forces have also adequate and effectively done counter-deployment," India's defence minister said. "Since last year, we have maintained relationship with China on military and diplomatic levels. During the talks, we told China that we want a solution on the issue based on three principles," the defence minister said. "First, both parties must agree on LAC and respect it. Secondly, there shouldn't be an attempt to change the status unilaterally, by any party. Thirdly, all the compromises should be completely agreed upon by both parties," he said.

India-China standoff: China will move troops to east of Finger 8, says Rajnath Singh in Parliament over disengagement

The Chinese Defence spokesman on Wednesday said that frontline troops of India and China at the southern and northern banks of the Pangong Lake at the Line of Actual Control (LAC) in eastern Ladakh have started&nbsp;disengagement". 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/india-china-standoff-how-indian-navys-marcos-can-change-the-game-along-pangong-lake-in-eastern-ladakh-346930">Pictures | India-China standoff: How Indian Navy's MARCOS can change the game along Pangong lake in eastern Ladakh</a>

Senior Colonel Wu Qian, spokesperson for the Chinese Ministry of National Defence, in a written statement, said, "The Chinese and Indian frontline troops at the southern and northern bank of the Pangong Tso Lake start synchronised and organised disengagement from February 10."

There was no comment from the Indian side on the statement made by Colonel Wu Qian and carried by China's official media. 
 
<img alt="Global Times" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="2d1345cb-c547-4e1f-93b3-cebe1ea7710a" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/globaltimes.JPG" />

According to the consensus reached by the ninth round of the commander-level talks between China and India, the frontline units of the Chinese and Indian armed forces began organised disengagement from North and South bank of Pangong lake from February 10, Wu said in a brief press release.

The militaries of China and India have been engaged in a tense standoff in eastern Ladakh since early May last year. The two countries have held several rounds of military and diplomatic-level talks to resolve the face-off.

On January 24, the 9th round of China-India Corps Commander-level meeting was held on the Chinese side of the Moldo-Chushul border meeting point.

(With inputs from agencies)

The Chinese Defence spokesman on Wednesday said that frontline troops of India and China at the southern and northern banks of the Pangong Lake at the Line of Actual Control (LAC) in eastern Ladakh have started disengagement".

The Chinese Defence spokesman on Wednesday said that frontline troops of India and China at the southern and northern banks of the Pangong Lake at the Line of Actual Control (LAC) in eastern Ladakh have started disengagement". Pictures | India-China standoff: How Indian Navy's MARCOS can change the game along Pangong lake in eastern Ladakh Senior Colonel Wu Qian, spokesperson for the Chinese Ministry of National Defence, in a written statement, said, "The Chinese and Indian frontline troops at the southern and northern bank of the Pangong Tso Lake start synchronised and organised disengagement from February 10." There was no comment from the Indian side on the statement made by Colonel Wu Qian and carried by China's official media. According to the consensus reached by the ninth round of the commander-level talks between China and India, the frontline units of the Chinese and Indian armed forces began organised disengagement from North and South bank of Pangong lake from February 10, Wu said in a brief press release. The militaries of China and India have been engaged in a tense standoff in eastern Ladakh since early May last year. The two countries have held several rounds of military and diplomatic-level talks to resolve the face-off. On January 24, the 9th round of China-India Corps Commander-level meeting was held on the Chinese side of the Moldo-Chushul border meeting point. (With inputs from agencies)

China’s army claims both sides start withdrawal along Pangong Lake; no comment from India

Pointing out that India China ties being at a "crossroad", India's External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar has said that "choices that are made will have profound repercussion" not just for 2 countries, but also the entire world.&nbsp;

Ties between the two&nbsp;countries have deteriorated significantly in the last one year due to the build-up by China at the Line of Actual Control in Eastern Ladakh. The Galwan&nbsp;incident, in which 20 Indian soldiers died due to aggressive Chinese actions further impacted the ties.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/how-china-is-playing-the-distraction-game-at-lac-to-hide-wuhan-virus-weakness-at-home-359305" hreflang="en">How China is playing the distraction game at LAC to hide Wuhan virus weakness at home</a>

Jaishankar said, "The events in eastern Ladakh last year so profoundly disturbed the relationship" and they "not only signal a disregard for commitments of minimizing the troop levels but also showed a willingness to breach peace and tranquility"

He explained, "to date, we have yet to receive a credible explanation for a change in China's stance or reasons of the massing of troops" in border areas.

Under the various pacts signed by the 2 countries, to maintain peace and tranquillity at LAC, there shall be no massing of troops. China also so far has refused to disengage in the area despite repeated rounds of talks at both diplomatic and military levels.

Jaishankar listed out how China's created hurdles for India, pointing to several issues--the stapled visas issue, reluctance to deal with military commands, blocking NSG &amp; UNSC bid, stopping listing of Pak based terrorist at UNSC, the promise of market access not delivered, violation of Indian sovereignty by CPEC and friction at the border area.

"Far from mitigating the differences", EAM said, "events of 2020 have actually put our relationship under exceptional stress" and "development of ties can only be based on mutuality"--mutual respect, mutual sensitivity, and mutual interests.&nbsp;He said, "life can't carry on undisturbed despite the situation at the border" which simply is "not realistic".

As a major impact of Chinese actions, India has banned many Chinese mobile apps, increased scrutiny on investment from the country. The national sentiment in the country has also turned very negative against China. This comes as globally Chinese actions have drawn criticism due to its aggressive acts with a whole host of countries--Japan, Taiwan, Australia, Canada, Vietnam etc.

Pointing out that India China ties being at a "crossroad", India's External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar has said that "choices that are made will have profound repercussion" not just for 2 countries, but also the entire world.

Pointing out that India China ties being at a "crossroad", India's External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar has said that "choices that are made will have profound repercussion" not just for 2 countries, but also the entire world. Ties between the two countries have deteriorated significantly in the last one year due to the build-up by China at the Line of Actual Control in Eastern Ladakh. The Galwan incident, in which 20 Indian soldiers died due to aggressive Chinese actions further impacted the ties. Also read: How China is playing the distraction game at LAC to hide Wuhan virus weakness at home Jaishankar said, "The events in eastern Ladakh last year so profoundly disturbed the relationship" and they "not only signal a disregard for commitments of minimizing the troop levels but also showed a willingness to breach peace and tranquility" He explained, "to date, we have yet to receive a credible explanation for a change in China's stance or reasons of the massing of troops" in border areas. Under the various pacts signed by the 2 countries, to maintain peace and tranquillity at LAC, there shall be no massing of troops. China also so far has refused to disengage in the area despite repeated rounds of talks at both diplomatic and military levels. Jaishankar listed out how China's created hurdles for India, pointing to several issues--the stapled visas issue, reluctance to deal with military commands, blocking NSG & UNSC bid, stopping listing of Pak based terrorist at UNSC, the promise of market access not delivered, violation of Indian sovereignty by CPEC and friction at the border area. "Far from mitigating the differences", EAM said, "events of 2020 have actually put our relationship under exceptional stress" and "development of ties can only be based on mutuality"--mutual respect, mutual sensitivity, and mutual interests. He said, "life can't carry on undisturbed despite the situation at the border" which simply is "not realistic". As a major impact of Chinese actions, India has banned many Chinese mobile apps, increased scrutiny on investment from the country. The national sentiment in the country has also turned very negative against China. This comes as globally Chinese actions have drawn criticism due to its aggressive acts with a whole host of countries--Japan, Taiwan, Australia, Canada, Vietnam etc.

Ladakh incident 'profoundly disturbed' India-China ties, says Indian External Affairs Minister Jaishankar

After two border provocations in seven months both in the middle of the Wuhan virus pandemic, China has tried to play the distraction game.

On June 15, the world was distracted by the Wuhan virus pandemic, however, China tried to capitalise on the crisis. It clashed with Indian troops with the hope of grabbing some land.

Now, seven months later, on January 20, China has tried to play the same trick again. This time it clashed with Indian troops at Naku la to distract the world from the crisis back home.

China wants to change the headlines. On January 14, China had recorded its first Wuhan virus death since May. The healthcare situation has gone downhill since with 1,800 active cases in China. There has been a spike in daily cases. On January 24, China recorded 124 new cases, just the day before it was 80.

It was the worst wave of new infections since March 2020. China currently has at least 19 million people under lockdown as infections have spread to the provinces of Hebei, Jilin and Hei long Jiang. The latest outbreak is in the cty of Tonghua with 500,000 residents in home quarantine.

The situation is so bad that even Chinese mouthpiece the Global Times is having a hard time covering up.

"Under pressure from the online public outcry, deputy mayor Jiang Haiyan issued an apology on behalf of the city's party committee and the government of Tonghua at a Sunday press conference for the inconvenience caused by inadequate distribution of daily necessities for residents," it said.

The lockdown has resulted in food and medicine. There has been mounting anxiety and anger against the Chinese Communist Party. Authorities in Tonghua had to put out a circular stating that it has "sufficient reserves of basic materials such as grains, oils, vegetables".

It said: "the general public must maintain a good attitude, fight the nationwide fight against the epidemic". China does not want anyone to know about rising frustration with the CCP at home so it is decided to create problems at LAC.

Beijing tried to kill two birds with one stone by creating tensions at the Indian border.&nbsp;China hoped to also mask the headlines in India on India's vaccine diplomacy. While China has been orchestrating the world's biggest cover-up, India has been driving the world's largest vaccination programme.

India has also gifted vaccines to seven countries. At least two others have received commercial shipments and 92 countries have reportedly approached India for Wuhan virus jabs from Brazil to Bangladesh- countries are heaping praise on India.

These are the same countries that China hoped to sell its vaccines. Beijing wanted to capitalise on the crisis, however, that dream has now been killed by India's vaccine diplomacy. China is now issuing consolation notes. China's foreign ministry said there should not be vicious competition or confrontation when it comes to vaccine supply.

"There are currently multiple COVID-19 vaccines available worldwide. It is up to each country to decide independently which vaccine to choose," &nbsp;Zhao Lijian, Chinese ministry of foreign affairs spokesperson, said.

From vaccines to investment, countries do not want anything to do with China. In 2020, India's FDI increased more than China's - 13 per cent as opposed to China's 4 per cent - these numbers must have been frustrating for China.

FDI in India rose by 13 per cent boosted by investment in the digital sector and a border clash was the perfect way to take attention away from India's successes.

Distraction is the Dragon's favourite tool. In 2020, China used the pandemic as a distraction to pursue its long-term foreign policy. It claimed sovereignty over disputed islands in the South China Sea and intimidated Taiwan. It quashed freedom in Hong Kong and tried taking advantage of an undefined border with India.

In 2021, China is using distraction again to hide an outbreak at home, the only difference is this time the world knows better!

After two border provocations in seven months both in the middle of the Wuhan virus pandemic, China has tried to play the distraction game. On June 15, the world was distracted by the Wuhan virus pandemic, however, China tried to capitalise on the crisis.

After two border provocations in seven months both in the middle of the Wuhan virus pandemic, China has tried to play the distraction game. On June 15, the world was distracted by the Wuhan virus pandemic, however, China tried to capitalise on the crisis. It clashed with Indian troops with the hope of grabbing some land. Now, seven months later, on January 20, China has tried to play the same trick again. This time it clashed with Indian troops at Naku la to distract the world from the crisis back home. China wants to change the headlines. On January 14, China had recorded its first Wuhan virus death since May. The healthcare situation has gone downhill since with 1,800 active cases in China. There has been a spike in daily cases. On January 24, China recorded 124 new cases, just the day before it was 80. It was the worst wave of new infections since March 2020. China currently has at least 19 million people under lockdown as infections have spread to the provinces of Hebei, Jilin and Hei long Jiang. The latest outbreak is in the cty of Tonghua with 500,000 residents in home quarantine. The situation is so bad that even Chinese mouthpiece the Global Times is having a hard time covering up. "Under pressure from the online public outcry, deputy mayor Jiang Haiyan issued an apology on behalf of the city's party committee and the government of Tonghua at a Sunday press conference for the inconvenience caused by inadequate distribution of daily necessities for residents," it said. The lockdown has resulted in food and medicine. There has been mounting anxiety and anger against the Chinese Communist Party. Authorities in Tonghua had to put out a circular stating that it has "sufficient reserves of basic materials such as grains, oils, vegetables". It said: "the general public must maintain a good attitude, fight the nationwide fight against the epidemic". China does not want anyone to know about rising frustration with the CCP at home so it is decided to create problems at LAC. Beijing tried to kill two birds with one stone by creating tensions at the Indian border. China hoped to also mask the headlines in India on India's vaccine diplomacy. While China has been orchestrating the world's biggest cover-up, India has been driving the world's largest vaccination programme. India has also gifted vaccines to seven countries. At least two others have received commercial shipments and 92 countries have reportedly approached India for Wuhan virus jabs from Brazil to Bangladesh- countries are heaping praise on India. These are the same countries that China hoped to sell its vaccines. Beijing wanted to capitalise on the crisis, however, that dream has now been killed by India's vaccine diplomacy. China is now issuing consolation notes. China's foreign ministry said there should not be vicious competition or confrontation when it comes to vaccine supply. "There are currently multiple COVID-19 vaccines available worldwide. It is up to each country to decide independently which vaccine to choose," Zhao Lijian, Chinese ministry of foreign affairs spokesperson, said. From vaccines to investment, countries do not want anything to do with China. In 2020, India's FDI increased more than China's - 13 per cent as opposed to China's 4 per cent - these numbers must have been frustrating for China. FDI in India rose by 13 per cent boosted by investment in the digital sector and a border clash was the perfect way to take attention away from India's successes. Distraction is the Dragon's favourite tool. In 2020, China used the pandemic as a distraction to pursue its long-term foreign policy. It claimed sovereignty over disputed islands in the South China Sea and intimidated Taiwan. It quashed freedom in Hong Kong and tried taking advantage of an undefined border with India. In 2021, China is using distraction again to hide an outbreak at home, the only difference is this time the world knows better!

How China is playing the distraction game at LAC to hide Wuhan virus weakness at home

After seven months, nine rounds of talks and several exchanges, China is yet to commit to a complete withdrawal along the Line of Actual Control(LAC).

In the last one year, India-China relations have hit its lowest point.&nbsp;

On June 15 last year, without a single bullet or a bomb there was a bloodbath at the LAC after an unprovoked attack by the Chinese side which led to the death of 20 Indian soldiers and many more Chinese soldiers who still remain unacknowledged.

It was the deadliest border clash between India and China since 1975. It led to a massive troop build-up in the following weeks as India and China poured tens of thousands of troops with heavy weaponry along the 3,500-kilometre long disputed border.

Reports say India has deployed nearly 50,000 soldiers who remain in a high state of combat readiness with India matching the Chinese build-up toe-to-toe, Beijing has been forced to come to the negotiating table.

In August last year, India had captured strategic outposts in a night-time operation stationed on key heights. Indian soldiers now have a clear view of troop movements in the disputed territory. China did try to close in on Indian positions firing warning shots on the border but the Indian side has managed to keep China at bay.

The standoff has spilled to other fronts, beyond the border. India has curbed Chinese investments and banned more than 250 Chinese apps with ties hitting an all-time low. India's external affairs minister S Jaishankar met with his Chinese counterpart Wang Yi. The meeting took place on the sidelines of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation Summit(SCO) in September last year.

The two leaders managed to reach a five-point consensus to ease tensions but even after nine rounds of military talks, the standoff hasn't ended. &nbsp;After repeated promises, China hasn't moved back its frontline troops. In several areas, soldiers from both sides remain just a few hundred meters apart from each other.

Meanwhile, the Chinese press has been aggressively pushing war rhetoric releasing videos showing the Chinese military ramping up its troop deployments. The provocations from the Chinese side have continued in 2021. In the latest development, satellites spotted a village along the border in Arunachal Pradesh. China has allegedly built more than a hundred homes in the area which has been under Chinese occupation for decades.

Meanwhile, India continues to ramp up border infrastructure and connect remote villages by roads. The two armies remained locked in their positions on the front while officials continue to look for a diplomatic solution.

After seven months, nine rounds of talks and several exchanges, China is yet to commit to a complete withdrawal along the Line of Actual Control(LAC). In the last one year, India-China relations have hit its lowest point.

After seven months, nine rounds of talks and several exchanges, China is yet to commit to a complete withdrawal along the Line of Actual Control(LAC). In the last one year, India-China relations have hit its lowest point. On June 15 last year, without a single bullet or a bomb there was a bloodbath at the LAC after an unprovoked attack by the Chinese side which led to the death of 20 Indian soldiers and many more Chinese soldiers who still remain unacknowledged. It was the deadliest border clash between India and China since 1975. It led to a massive troop build-up in the following weeks as India and China poured tens of thousands of troops with heavy weaponry along the 3,500-kilometre long disputed border. Reports say India has deployed nearly 50,000 soldiers who remain in a high state of combat readiness with India matching the Chinese build-up toe-to-toe, Beijing has been forced to come to the negotiating table. In August last year, India had captured strategic outposts in a night-time operation stationed on key heights. Indian soldiers now have a clear view of troop movements in the disputed territory. China did try to close in on Indian positions firing warning shots on the border but the Indian side has managed to keep China at bay. The standoff has spilled to other fronts, beyond the border. India has curbed Chinese investments and banned more than 250 Chinese apps with ties hitting an all-time low. India's external affairs minister S Jaishankar met with his Chinese counterpart Wang Yi. The meeting took place on the sidelines of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation Summit(SCO) in September last year. The two leaders managed to reach a five-point consensus to ease tensions but even after nine rounds of military talks, the standoff hasn't ended. After repeated promises, China hasn't moved back its frontline troops. In several areas, soldiers from both sides remain just a few hundred meters apart from each other. Meanwhile, the Chinese press has been aggressively pushing war rhetoric releasing videos showing the Chinese military ramping up its troop deployments. The provocations from the Chinese side have continued in 2021. In the latest development, satellites spotted a village along the border in Arunachal Pradesh. China has allegedly built more than a hundred homes in the area which has been under Chinese occupation for decades. Meanwhile, India continues to ramp up border infrastructure and connect remote villages by roads. The two armies remained locked in their positions on the front while officials continue to look for a diplomatic solution.

Seven months after Galwan clash, China yet to commit troop withdrawal along LAC

Nine months after the first intrusion attempt and seven months after the clashes in Galwan, the Chinese have done it again - provoked India at the border.

There were clashes this time in Sikkim which took place last week at Naku la on January 20. New Delhi said it was a "minor face-off" as both sides suffered injuries.

Commanders on both sides stepped in to resolve the issue. It was the third border clash in Sikkim in a month as tensions remain even as talks are still on.

While thousands of soldiers maintain a&nbsp;tight watch on the border, China has been denying India's claims, rejecting media reports and even calling the clashes "fake news".

The first denial came from Hu Xijin, Editor-in-Chief of state-run Global Times.

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This is fake news. Based on what I learned, there is no record of this clash in the patrol log of the Chinese side. Small frictions often occur on China-India border area, but clash that caused multiple injuries will definitely be recorded and reported. <a href="https://t.co/VaeU4Gxkdx">pic.twitter.com/VaeU4Gxkdx</a>
— Hu Xijin 胡锡进 (@HuXijin_GT) <a href="https://twitter.com/HuXijin_GT/status/1353607368718700544?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 25, 2021</a></blockquote>
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“This is fake news. Based on what I learned, there is no record of this clash in the patrol log of the Chinese side. Small frictions often occur on China-India border area but clash that caused multiple injuries will definitely be recorded and reported,” Hu Xijin said on Twitter referring to an Indian media report he said there is no record of the clash and that the claims were simply fake news.

Around the same time, the chief reporter of Global Times posted on Twitter tagging&nbsp;WION and&nbsp;accusing us of sharing fake news while amplifying a Global Times report that once again peddles the same lie that the clashes did not happen.

China may have blocked WION from the mainland but they certainly hasn't stopped watching the channel. The borders are well defined in this area but &nbsp;Indian and Chinese troops clash frequently in Naku la especially after India began expanding its border infrastructure. There was a flare-up in Naku la in May last year as well. In June, Chinese troops attacked Indian soldiers in Ladakh kicking off one of the longest-running border stand-offs between India and China.

Reporters in Beijing heard about the clashes in Sikkim and questioned Zhao Lijian, the Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson, better known as "wolf warrior"&nbsp;in chief.

Zhao Lijian chose restraint over aggression this time. He said he doesn't know anything about the clashes.

"Regarding the specific situation you mentioned, I have no information to provide you with. What I want to emphasise is that the Chinese border troops have always been committed to maintaining peace and tranquillity in the China-India border region. China urges India to meet China halfway and refrain from any unilateral actions that may complicate or exacerbate the border situation, properly manage differences, and take practical actions to maintain peace and stability in the border areas," Lijian said.

It was a predictable response while tensions persist at the border. On Sunday, both sides had met for talks once again which was the ninth round of commander-level talks. The last commander-level meeting had taken place in November last year. Both sides have met nine times to end the standoff. However, there has been no headway so far but the last round of talks seems to have ended on a promising note.

On Sunday, the Indian delegation had both diplomatic and military representation. Senior officials from the Indian Army, as well as the ministry of external affairs participated in the talks. Reports say their conversation with the Chinese side went on for 15 hours. India has been clear in its demand- it wants status quo and return of all troops to their original positions as they were in April 2020.

India seems keen on keeping the channels of communication open. New Delhi will like a swift end to this standoff despite promising a phased withdrawal on more occasions than one. China hasn't pulled back the PLA from several friction points, the positions from where it could step up its military provocations especially when the summer arrives.

Nine months after the first intrusion attempt and seven months after the clashes in Galwan, the Chinese have done it again - provoked India at the border. There were clashes this time in Sikkim which took place last week at Naku la on January 20.

Nine months after the first intrusion attempt and seven months after the clashes in Galwan, the Chinese have done it again - provoked India at the border. There were clashes this time in Sikkim which took place last week at Naku la on January 20. New Delhi said it was a "minor face-off" as both sides suffered injuries. Commanders on both sides stepped in to resolve the issue. It was the third border clash in Sikkim in a month as tensions remain even as talks are still on. While thousands of soldiers maintain a tight watch on the border, China has been denying India's claims, rejecting media reports and even calling the clashes "fake news". The first denial came from Hu Xijin, Editor-in-Chief of state-run Global Times. This is fake news. Based on what I learned, there is no record of this clash in the patrol log of the Chinese side. Small frictions often occur on China-India border area, but clash that caused multiple injuries will definitely be recorded and reported. pic.twitter.com/VaeU4Gxkdx — Hu Xijin 胡锡进 (@HuXijin_GT) January 25, 2021 × “This is fake news. Based on what I learned, there is no record of this clash in the patrol log of the Chinese side. Small frictions often occur on China-India border area but clash that caused multiple injuries will definitely be recorded and reported,” Hu Xijin said on Twitter referring to an Indian media report he said there is no record of the clash and that the claims were simply fake news. Around the same time, the chief reporter of Global Times posted on Twitter tagging WION and accusing us of sharing fake news while amplifying a Global Times report that once again peddles the same lie that the clashes did not happen. China may have blocked WION from the mainland but they certainly hasn't stopped watching the channel. The borders are well defined in this area but Indian and Chinese troops clash frequently in Naku la especially after India began expanding its border infrastructure. There was a flare-up in Naku la in May last year as well. In June, Chinese troops attacked Indian soldiers in Ladakh kicking off one of the longest-running border stand-offs between India and China. Reporters in Beijing heard about the clashes in Sikkim and questioned Zhao Lijian, the Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson, better known as "wolf warrior" in chief. Zhao Lijian chose restraint over aggression this time. He said he doesn't know anything about the clashes. "Regarding the specific situation you mentioned, I have no information to provide you with. What I want to emphasise is that the Chinese border troops have always been committed to maintaining peace and tranquillity in the China-India border region. China urges India to meet China halfway and refrain from any unilateral actions that may complicate or exacerbate the border situation, properly manage differences, and take practical actions to maintain peace and stability in the border areas," Lijian said. It was a predictable response while tensions persist at the border. On Sunday, both sides had met for talks once again which was the ninth round of commander-level talks. The last commander-level meeting had taken place in November last year. Both sides have met nine times to end the standoff. However, there has been no headway so far but the last round of talks seems to have ended on a promising note. On Sunday, the Indian delegation had both diplomatic and military representation. Senior officials from the Indian Army, as well as the ministry of external affairs participated in the talks. Reports say their conversation with the Chinese side went on for 15 hours. India has been clear in its demand- it wants status quo and return of all troops to their original positions as they were in April 2020. India seems keen on keeping the channels of communication open. New Delhi will like a swift end to this standoff despite promising a phased withdrawal on more occasions than one. China hasn't pulled back the PLA from several friction points, the positions from where it could step up its military provocations especially when the summer arrives.

India, China troops involved in 'minor face-off' in Sikkim

Amid the standoff along the Line of Actual Control(LAC), India and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-china-standoff-indian-army-foils-chinas-intrusion-bid-in-sikkim-359265">China</a> completed their ninth round of corps commander level meeting on Sunday with the Indian Army asserting that meeting was "positive, practical and constructive".

Watch:

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The talks had taken place in Moldo-Chushul border meeting point. "The two sides agreed to push for an early disengagement of the frontline troops," the Indian Army said.

The Indian Army said both sides agreed to follow important "consensus of their state leaders, maintain the good momentum of dialogue and negotiation".

There will be another round of talks between the two sides to jointly advance de-escalation, the Indian Army informed.

"The two sides agreed to continue their effective efforts in ensuring the restraint of the frontline troops, stabilise and control the situation along the LAC in the Western sector of the China-India border," the Indian Army said.

The Army informed that both sides decided "jointly to maintain peace and tranquillity."

The talks took place in the backdrop of a "minor faceoff" between the two armies at Naku la in north Sikkim.

The skirmish had led to injuries on both sides. The Indian Army had said the "minor face-off" had taken place on January 20.&nbsp;

"There was a minor face-off at Naku la area of north Sikkim on January 20, 2021. The same was resolved by local commanders as per established protocols," the Indian Army said in a statement on Monday.

&nbsp;Indian and Chinese troops had clashed in Galwan Valley on June 15 last year which had led the death of 20 Indian troops, although the PLA had suffered casualties as well but the Chinese foreign ministry has refused to divulge figures.

Amid the escalating tensions along the Line of Actual Control(LAC) both sides have deployed thousands of troops with Chinese troops heavily deployed in frontline areas.

Amid the standoff along the Line of Actual Control(LAC), India and China completed their ninth round of corps commander level meeting on Sunday with the Indian Army asserting that meeting was "positive, practical and constructive".

Amid the standoff along the Line of Actual Control(LAC), India and China completed their ninth round of corps commander level meeting on Sunday with the Indian Army asserting that meeting was "positive, practical and constructive". Watch: The talks had taken place in Moldo-Chushul border meeting point. "The two sides agreed to push for an early disengagement of the frontline troops," the Indian Army said. The Indian Army said both sides agreed to follow important "consensus of their state leaders, maintain the good momentum of dialogue and negotiation". There will be another round of talks between the two sides to jointly advance de-escalation, the Indian Army informed. "The two sides agreed to continue their effective efforts in ensuring the restraint of the frontline troops, stabilise and control the situation along the LAC in the Western sector of the China-India border," the Indian Army said. The Army informed that both sides decided "jointly to maintain peace and tranquillity." The talks took place in the backdrop of a "minor faceoff" between the two armies at Naku la in north Sikkim. The skirmish had led to injuries on both sides. The Indian Army had said the "minor face-off" had taken place on January 20. "There was a minor face-off at Naku la area of north Sikkim on January 20, 2021. The same was resolved by local commanders as per established protocols," the Indian Army said in a statement on Monday. Indian and Chinese troops had clashed in Galwan Valley on June 15 last year which had led the death of 20 Indian troops, although the PLA had suffered casualties as well but the Chinese foreign ministry has refused to divulge figures. Amid the escalating tensions along the Line of Actual Control(LAC) both sides have deployed thousands of troops with Chinese troops heavily deployed in frontline areas.

India, China commander-level talks were practical & constructive: Indian Army

Indian and Chinese troops clashed once again last week in Naku la in north Sikkim in the eastern Himalayas. The clash was largely hand-to-hand and no shots were fired.

Watch:

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The skirmish led to several injures on both sides. The Indian Army has said it was a "minor face-off" which had taken place on January 20.

"There was a minor face-off at Naku la area of north Sikkim on January 20, 2021. The same was resolved by local commanders as per established protocols," the Indian Army said in a statement.

The latest clash occurred when the Chinese side attempted to intrude into Indian territory and the Indian army responded with some reinforcements.

The latest clash at Naku la comes even as Indian and Chinese troops were already engaged in a border standoff in eastern Ladakh after the ninth round of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-china-talks-9th-round-of-military-negotiations-to-take-place-on-sunday-358748">commander-level</a>&nbsp;talks between India and China which lasted for nearly 16 hours and&nbsp;concluded at around 2:30am(IST) on Sunday.

The border tensions began simmering between the two neighbours in May last year and on June 15 last year, an extended skirmish took place at Galwan Valley&nbsp;which led to casualties for both sides for the first time in 45 years. Twenty Indian soldiers had died in the incident with an undisclosed number of Chinese casualties.

Both sides have deployed thousands of troops along the Line of Actual Control(LAC) especially along the three friction points in the eastern Ladakh region.

China remains aggressive&nbsp;not only with India but with other neighbours from <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/taiwan-reports-incursion-by-china-says-its-monitoring-the-situation-358805">Taiwan </a>to Japan and also Australia.

Indian and Chinese troops clashed once again last week in Naku la in north Sikkim in the eastern Himalayas. The clash was largely hand-to-hand and no shots were fired.

Indian and Chinese troops clashed once again last week in Naku la in north Sikkim in the eastern Himalayas. The clash was largely hand-to-hand and no shots were fired. Watch: The skirmish led to several injures on both sides. The Indian Army has said it was a "minor face-off" which had taken place on January 20. "There was a minor face-off at Naku la area of north Sikkim on January 20, 2021. The same was resolved by local commanders as per established protocols," the Indian Army said in a statement. The latest clash occurred when the Chinese side attempted to intrude into Indian territory and the Indian army responded with some reinforcements. The latest clash at Naku la comes even as Indian and Chinese troops were already engaged in a border standoff in eastern Ladakh after the ninth round of commander-level talks between India and China which lasted for nearly 16 hours and concluded at around 2:30am(IST) on Sunday. The border tensions began simmering between the two neighbours in May last year and on June 15 last year, an extended skirmish took place at Galwan Valley which led to casualties for both sides for the first time in 45 years. Twenty Indian soldiers had died in the incident with an undisclosed number of Chinese casualties. Both sides have deployed thousands of troops along the Line of Actual Control(LAC) especially along the three friction points in the eastern Ladakh region. China remains aggressive not only with India but with other neighbours from Taiwan to Japan and also Australia.

India-China standoff: Indian Army foils China's intrusion bid in Sikkim

Ex-Desert Knight 21: Rafale jets spearhead India, France air exercise at Jodhpur

According to reports, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-china-standoff-india-releases-chinese-soldier-apprehended-along-lac-355931">China</a> has built a new village consisting of 101 new homes in India's Arunachal Pradesh, which has stoked a new row between the two sides amid the<a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/india-china-standoff"> India-China standoff</a> along the LAC.

The village is reportedly located on the banks of Tsari Chu river in upper Subansiri district, an area along the LAC.&nbsp;The area where the village is built has been long been disputed by both sides.

US-based imaging company Planet Labs has satellite images and claimed that around 100 houses have been built. There was no construction at the particular place in 2019.

The satellite images from November 2020 shows the village constructed in the eastern range of the Himalayas compared with the satellite image from August 2019, the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/india-china-standoff-how-indian-navys-marcos-can-change-the-game-along-pangong-lake-in-eastern-ladakh-346930">Chinese </a>have made substantial gains.

India's external affairs ministry acknowledged the satellite images and said that the Indian government has also stepped up border infrastructure including construction roads and bridges.

The MEA said that India keeps a constant watch on all developments. The ministry added that India is taking all the necessary measures to safeguard its sovereignty and territorial integrity.

Meanwhile, India's ruling party BJP lawmaker from the state of Arunachal Pradesh expressed concerns and spoke about the issue.

"Since the 80s till today, they (China) are occupying this area and construction of villages is not a new thing. They have already constructed military base between Bisa and Maza which is inside McMahon Line, under Indian territory," Tapir Gao, BJP MP from Arunachal Pradesh, said.&nbsp;

The development comes after Indian and Chinese soldiers clashed at <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/sacrifices-of-galwan-bravehearts-wont-go-in-vain-indian-army-chief-naravane-356868">Galwan </a>Valley in June last year in which 20 Indian had died in action, although the PLA had suffered casualties as well, however, China's foreign ministry has refused to divulge figures.

The stand-off in the region continues through this winter with thousands of troops from both sides deployed on the frontline along the LAC at extreme altitudes in sub-zero temperatures.

According to reports, China has built a new village consisting of 101 new homes in India's Arunachal Pradesh, which has stoked a new row between the two sides amid the India-China standoff along the LAC.

According to reports, China has built a new village consisting of 101 new homes in India's Arunachal Pradesh, which has stoked a new row between the two sides amid the India-China standoff along the LAC. The village is reportedly located on the banks of Tsari Chu river in upper Subansiri district, an area along the LAC. The area where the village is built has been long been disputed by both sides. US-based imaging company Planet Labs has satellite images and claimed that around 100 houses have been built. There was no construction at the particular place in 2019. The satellite images from November 2020 shows the village constructed in the eastern range of the Himalayas compared with the satellite image from August 2019, the Chinese have made substantial gains. India's external affairs ministry acknowledged the satellite images and said that the Indian government has also stepped up border infrastructure including construction roads and bridges. The MEA said that India keeps a constant watch on all developments. The ministry added that India is taking all the necessary measures to safeguard its sovereignty and territorial integrity. Meanwhile, India's ruling party BJP lawmaker from the state of Arunachal Pradesh expressed concerns and spoke about the issue. "Since the 80s till today, they (China) are occupying this area and construction of villages is not a new thing. They have already constructed military base between Bisa and Maza which is inside McMahon Line, under Indian territory," Tapir Gao, BJP MP from Arunachal Pradesh, said. The development comes after Indian and Chinese soldiers clashed at Galwan Valley in June last year in which 20 Indian had died in action, although the PLA had suffered casualties as well, however, China's foreign ministry has refused to divulge figures. The stand-off in the region continues through this winter with thousands of troops from both sides deployed on the frontline along the LAC at extreme altitudes in sub-zero temperatures.

China builds village in India's Arunachal Pradesh: Report

Paying homage to 20 Indian soldiers who died in Galwan valley due to aggressive actions by the Chinese army, Indian <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/army-day-10-things-to-know-about-indias-elite-fighting-force-356830">Army </a>chief General MM Naravane on Friday said that their "sacrifice.. won't go in vain". He was speaking at the annual army day parade.

The death of 20 Indian soldiers at Line of actual control was the worst military incident between India and China in decades and came even as Beijing has been aggressive with most of its neighbours. The Indian army chief pointing out to the Chinese attempts to "unilaterally change the status quo" at LAC was met with a "befitting reply".

Both sides have been engaged in talks, both at the diplomatic and military level to defuse the tension. Focus now is on the night round of military talks which is is expected to take place soon.

On Pakistan, he said that the country's support to "terror continues" even as "300-400 terrorists from camps are waiting to infiltrate into Indian territory". He pointed out that the "number of ceasefire violations increased by 44 per cent in 2020" and attempts to smuggle in arms via drones and tunnels. Indian army had eliminated over 200 terrorists in counter-terror operations.

Indian Army chief in his speech lauded Indian troops at UN Peacekeeping mission. At least 53, 00 Indian troops are deployed in UN Missions across the world.&nbsp;

Significantly he also highlighted the ongoing cooperation between Indian and Myanmar's army to deal with insurgent groups in the areas.

Paying homage to 20 Indian soldiers who died in Galwan valley due to aggressive actions by the Chinese army, Indian Army chief General MM Naravane on Friday said that their "sacrifice.

Paying homage to 20 Indian soldiers who died in Galwan valley due to aggressive actions by the Chinese army, Indian Army chief General MM Naravane on Friday said that their "sacrifice.. won't go in vain". He was speaking at the annual army day parade. The death of 20 Indian soldiers at Line of actual control was the worst military incident between India and China in decades and came even as Beijing has been aggressive with most of its neighbours. The Indian army chief pointing out to the Chinese attempts to "unilaterally change the status quo" at LAC was met with a "befitting reply". Both sides have been engaged in talks, both at the diplomatic and military level to defuse the tension. Focus now is on the night round of military talks which is is expected to take place soon. On Pakistan, he said that the country's support to "terror continues" even as "300-400 terrorists from camps are waiting to infiltrate into Indian territory". He pointed out that the "number of ceasefire violations increased by 44 per cent in 2020" and attempts to smuggle in arms via drones and tunnels. Indian army had eliminated over 200 terrorists in counter-terror operations. Indian Army chief in his speech lauded Indian troops at UN Peacekeeping mission. At least 53, 00 Indian troops are deployed in UN Missions across the world. Significantly he also highlighted the ongoing cooperation between Indian and Myanmar's army to deal with insurgent groups in the areas.

Sacrifices of Galwan bravehearts won't go in vain: Indian Army chief Naravane

India's Army chief General Naravane said today that Pakistan continues to "embrace terrorism and continues to use terror as state policy." "We reserve our right to respond at a time and place of our choosing with precision.

India's Army chief General Naravane said today that Pakistan continues to "embrace terrorism and continues to use terror as state policy." "We reserve our right to respond at a time and place of our choosing with precision. It is a clear message we have sent across," the Army chief said on the Pakistan threat. "We have zero-tolerance for terror," he added. General Naravane said the forces are "ready to meet any eventuality". "We have maintained a high state of alertness all along the northern borders. We are hoping for a peaceful solution but are ready to meet any eventuality. All logistics are taken care of," the Army chief added on tensions along the Line of Actual Control(LAC) with China. Naravane said that eight round of talks has been conducted between India and China on the situation at the LAC with another round due to take place. Naravane said the Army faced two principal challenges namely COVID-19 and situation along India's northern borders involving China. "We are alert and ever ready to meet challenges," the Army chief asserted. "Pakistan and China together form a potent threat and the threat of collusivity cannot be wished away," he added. Naravane said a broad roadmap is being prepared to bring in all the new technologies to develop a technology-enabled Army to meet challenges of the future. On the Chinese activities, the Army chief said every year the PLA comes to traditional training areas which have been vacated. "They were in depth area of Tibet plateau with no reduction in friction area," he added.

Pakistan, China together form a potent threat, says Indian Army chief General Naravane

Indian Army Chief&nbsp;MM Naravane has ruled out any plans of sending troops on the ground in Afghanistan, reaffirming New Delhi's long-standing policy of "no boots on the ground". 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pakistan-china-together-form-a-potent-threat-says-indian-army-chief-general-naravane-356184">Also read | Pakistan, China together form a potent threat, says Indian Army chief General Naravane</a> 
 
In response to a question at his annual presser,&nbsp;General&nbsp;Naravane&nbsp;said, "as far as Afghanistan is concerned, there are no plans whatsoever to commit boots on the ground and neither do we envisage such a scenario developing in the near future". 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-china-standoff-as-winter-sets-over-lac-indias-army-chief-general-naravane-visits-eastern-ladakh-351819">Also read | India-China standoff: As winter sets over LAC, India's Army chief General Naravane visits eastern Ladakh</a> 
 
This is not the first time such statement has come from India. In 2017, the then Indian Defense Minister Nirmala Sitharaman ruled out Indian troops on the ground. At that time, the Trump administration was keen India sent its forces.&nbsp;&nbsp;

India has been Afghanistan's biggest development partner in the region.

From mega infrastructure projects like the India Afghanistan friendship dam to the Afghan parliament to capacity building, India has been providing the country support since the fall of the Taliban in 2001.&nbsp;

Both sides are soon expected to sign an agreement on the building of the Shatoot dam that will provide safe drinking water to 2 million residents of Kabul city.

Indian Army Chief MM Naravane has ruled out any plans of sending troops on the ground in Afghanistan, reaffirming New Delhi's long-standing policy of "no boots on the ground".

Indian Army Chief MM Naravane has ruled out any plans of sending troops on the ground in Afghanistan, reaffirming New Delhi's long-standing policy of "no boots on the ground". Also read | Pakistan, China together form a potent threat, says Indian Army chief General Naravane In response to a question at his annual presser, General Naravane said, "as far as Afghanistan is concerned, there are no plans whatsoever to commit boots on the ground and neither do we envisage such a scenario developing in the near future". Also read | India-China standoff: As winter sets over LAC, India's Army chief General Naravane visits eastern Ladakh This is not the first time such statement has come from India. In 2017, the then Indian Defense Minister Nirmala Sitharaman ruled out Indian troops on the ground. At that time, the Trump administration was keen India sent its forces. India has been Afghanistan's biggest development partner in the region. From mega infrastructure projects like the India Afghanistan friendship dam to the Afghan parliament to capacity building, India has been providing the country support since the fall of the Taliban in 2001. Both sides are soon expected to sign an agreement on the building of the Shatoot dam that will provide safe drinking water to 2 million residents of Kabul city.

Won't send boots on the ground in Afghanistan says Indian Army Chief Naravane

India on Monday handed over the Chinese soldier who was apprehended by Indian forces along the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-detains-chinese-soldier-found-on-indian-side-of-lac-355630">Line of Actual Control</a>(LAC).

Watch:

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The PLA soldier was handed to Chinese authorities at Chushul. The Chinese soldier was detained on Friday morning.

"The PLA soldier is being dealt with as per laid down procedures, and circumstances under which he had crossed the LAC are being investigated," the Indian Army had said in a statement.

The PLA's daily had said that soldier went missing in "the darkness and complicated terrain".

"India should strictly abide by the relevant agreements between the two countries, and promptly transfer the missing person to China, to help with cooling and de-escalating the China-Indian border situation," the PLA daily said.

It is the second time India has detained a Chinese solider, in October last year Indian forces had detained a Chinese soldier.

Indian and Chinese troops have at loggerheads ever since they clashed in Galwan Valley in June-15-16 last year although the Chinese army had suffered casualties as well but the country's foreign ministry has refused to divulge the casualty figure.

Although several rounds of talks have been conducted by Indian and Chinese commanders but there are a large number of troops from both sides deployed along the LAC.

India's foreign ministry said on Friday that both countries had agreed to conduct another round of talks between its Army commanders.

"In the meantime, both sides have maintained communication at the ground level to avoid any misunderstandings and misjudgements," the MEA said.

India on Monday handed over the Chinese soldier who was apprehended by Indian forces along the Line of Actual Control(LAC). Watch: The PLA soldier was handed to Chinese authorities at Chushul.

India on Monday handed over the Chinese soldier who was apprehended by Indian forces along the Line of Actual Control(LAC). Watch: The PLA soldier was handed to Chinese authorities at Chushul. The Chinese soldier was detained on Friday morning. "The PLA soldier is being dealt with as per laid down procedures, and circumstances under which he had crossed the LAC are being investigated," the Indian Army had said in a statement. The PLA's daily had said that soldier went missing in "the darkness and complicated terrain". "India should strictly abide by the relevant agreements between the two countries, and promptly transfer the missing person to China, to help with cooling and de-escalating the China-Indian border situation," the PLA daily said. It is the second time India has detained a Chinese solider, in October last year Indian forces had detained a Chinese soldier. Indian and Chinese troops have at loggerheads ever since they clashed in Galwan Valley in June-15-16 last year although the Chinese army had suffered casualties as well but the country's foreign ministry has refused to divulge the casualty figure. Although several rounds of talks have been conducted by Indian and Chinese commanders but there are a large number of troops from both sides deployed along the LAC. India's foreign ministry said on Friday that both countries had agreed to conduct another round of talks between its Army commanders. "In the meantime, both sides have maintained communication at the ground level to avoid any misunderstandings and misjudgements," the MEA said.

India-China standoff: India releases Chinese soldier apprehended along LAC

Amid the India-China standoff along the Line of Actual Control(LAC), India's Army chief General Naravane today visited forwards areas in eastern <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/chinese-general-zhao-zongqi-man-behind-violent-ladakh-clashes-removed-351303">Ladakh</a> to review the situation.

Watch:

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General Naravane visited Rechin La and met Army officers and soldiers in order to gauge the country's military preparedness. The Army chief was briefed by Lt Gen PGK Menon, the commander of the Leh-based 14 Corps.

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
General MM Naravane <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/COAS?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#COAS</a> visited forward base <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Tara?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Tara</a> and interacted with the local commanders and troops. He appreciated their high morale and state of readiness. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IndianArmy?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IndianArmy</a><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NationFirst?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NationFirst</a> <a href="https://t.co/Yr4GTE5Q11">pic.twitter.com/Yr4GTE5Q11</a>
— ADG PI - INDIAN ARMY (@adgpi) <a href="https://twitter.com/adgpi/status/1341646722393583616?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 23, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Naravane who reached the LAC on Wednesday morning was on a day-long visit to the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indias-defence-minister-highlights-chinas-unprovoked-aggression-build-up-in-ladakh-349692">China</a> border.

General MM Naravane interacted with the troops deployed in the forward areas and exhorted all ranks to continue working with same zeal and enthusiasm,&nbsp;the Army said. The Army chief also distributed sweets and cakes on the eve of Christmas.

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General MM Naravane <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/COAS?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#COAS</a> interacted with the troops deployed in forward areas and exhorted all ranks to continue working with same zeal and enthusiasm. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/COAS?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#COAS</a> also distributed sweets and <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/cakes?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#cakes</a> on the eve of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Christmas?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Christmas</a>. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CelebratingFestivalsTogether?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CelebratingFestivalsTogether</a><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IndianArmy?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IndianArmy</a> <a href="https://t.co/Fq22qqIqn3">pic.twitter.com/Fq22qqIqn3</a>
— ADG PI - INDIAN ARMY (@adgpi) <a href="https://twitter.com/adgpi/status/1341647618179534848?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 23, 2020</a></blockquote>
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General Naravane's visit was mainly aimed at meeting local commanders and troops and to ensure state of readiness. The Army chief also undertook on the "spot inspection" of the state of habitat of troops on the forward line of defences at Rechin La," the Army said.

Tensions between India and China has been on the razor's edge since June when troops from both sides clashed at the Galwan Valley on June 15-16 leading to the death of 20 Indian soldiers, although PLA troops were also killed in action but the Chinese foreign ministry has refused to divulge the casualty figure.

Although both sides have held several rounds of disengagement talks both at the diplomatic and military level but troops continue to be deployed along the LAC with the Chinese side refusing to fall back despite the harsh winter.

Reports say at least 50,000 Indian troops have been deployed along the LAC with the equal number by the Chinese PLA including heavy arms, ammunition and Air Force jets.

Amid the India-China standoff along the Line of Actual Control(LAC), India's Army chief General Naravane today visited forwards areas in eastern Ladakh to review the situation.

Amid the India-China standoff along the Line of Actual Control(LAC), India's Army chief General Naravane today visited forwards areas in eastern Ladakh to review the situation. Watch: General Naravane visited Rechin La and met Army officers and soldiers in order to gauge the country's military preparedness. The Army chief was briefed by Lt Gen PGK Menon, the commander of the Leh-based 14 Corps. General MM Naravane #COAS visited forward base #Tara and interacted with the local commanders and troops. He appreciated their high morale and state of readiness. #IndianArmy#NationFirst pic.twitter.com/Yr4GTE5Q11 — ADG PI - INDIAN ARMY (@adgpi) December 23, 2020 × Naravane who reached the LAC on Wednesday morning was on a day-long visit to the China border. General MM Naravane interacted with the troops deployed in the forward areas and exhorted all ranks to continue working with same zeal and enthusiasm, the Army said. The Army chief also distributed sweets and cakes on the eve of Christmas. General MM Naravane #COAS interacted with the troops deployed in forward areas and exhorted all ranks to continue working with same zeal and enthusiasm. #COAS also distributed sweets and #cakes on the eve of #Christmas. #CelebratingFestivalsTogether#IndianArmy pic.twitter.com/Fq22qqIqn3 — ADG PI - INDIAN ARMY (@adgpi) December 23, 2020 × General Naravane's visit was mainly aimed at meeting local commanders and troops and to ensure state of readiness. The Army chief also undertook on the "spot inspection" of the state of habitat of troops on the forward line of defences at Rechin La," the Army said. Tensions between India and China has been on the razor's edge since June when troops from both sides clashed at the Galwan Valley on June 15-16 leading to the death of 20 Indian soldiers, although PLA troops were also killed in action but the Chinese foreign ministry has refused to divulge the casualty figure. Although both sides have held several rounds of disengagement talks both at the diplomatic and military level but troops continue to be deployed along the LAC with the Chinese side refusing to fall back despite the harsh winter. Reports say at least 50,000 Indian troops have been deployed along the LAC with the equal number by the Chinese PLA including heavy arms, ammunition and Air Force jets.

India-China standoff: As winter sets over LAC, India's Army chief General Naravane visits eastern Ladakh

Indian defence minister Rajnath Singh and Japanese defence minister Kishi Nobuo on Tuesday discussed aggressive actions by China in the region and called for increased cooperation in the maritime domain.

While "free and open maritime order based on the rule of law" being discussed found mention in readouts issued by both Indian and Japanese defence ministries, the Japanese readout stated ministers, "affirmed their intention to continue exchanging views in light of the current events occurring in the region" and "concurred in sending a clear message that they strongly oppose any attempts to unilaterally change the status quo by coercion or any activities that escalate tension."&nbsp;

While China wasn't mentioned, nor "current events...in the region" pointed out, it is clear that Beijing's actions this year with its neighbours and beyond have changed the perception of the country drastically.

2020 saw Chinese aggressive action against&nbsp;both India and Japan. With India, the build-up by Chinese forces in eastern Ladakh continues, with Japan, China has&nbsp;staked its claim on Senkaku island&nbsp;which is under the administration of Tokyo. The year also saw the death of 20 Indian soldiers in aggressive actions by Chinese troops in Galwan Valley.

In the readout, Japan listed discussions on "regional situations" in the east China Sea and South China and called for "Free and open Indo-Pacific". China has been trying to stake claim to the whole of South China Sea based on its so-called "nine-dash line" which has been rejected by an arbitral tribunal constituted under United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) in 2016.

Key areas both Japan and Indian defence ministers discussed were on cooperation in third countries, on ways to counter disinformation and share lessons in humanitarian aid and disaster response amidst covid pandemic.&nbsp;

In the defence sector, both sides have increased cooperation, especially with the signing of the Japan-India Agreement on Reciprocal Provision of Supplies and Services (ACSA). The Indian Navy and its Japanese counterpart both undertook bilateral exercise earlier this year and in the month of November under the umbrella of Malabar Naval exercises--India, Japan, US and Australian navies came together.&nbsp;

Indian defence minister Rajnath Singh and Japanese defence minister Kishi Nobuo on Tuesday discussed aggressive actions by China in the region and called for increased cooperation in the maritime domain.

Indian defence minister Rajnath Singh and Japanese defence minister Kishi Nobuo on Tuesday discussed aggressive actions by China in the region and called for increased cooperation in the maritime domain. While "free and open maritime order based on the rule of law" being discussed found mention in readouts issued by both Indian and Japanese defence ministries, the Japanese readout stated ministers, "affirmed their intention to continue exchanging views in light of the current events occurring in the region" and "concurred in sending a clear message that they strongly oppose any attempts to unilaterally change the status quo by coercion or any activities that escalate tension." While China wasn't mentioned, nor "current events...in the region" pointed out, it is clear that Beijing's actions this year with its neighbours and beyond have changed the perception of the country drastically. 2020 saw Chinese aggressive action against both India and Japan. With India, the build-up by Chinese forces in eastern Ladakh continues, with Japan, China has staked its claim on Senkaku island which is under the administration of Tokyo. The year also saw the death of 20 Indian soldiers in aggressive actions by Chinese troops in Galwan Valley. In the readout, Japan listed discussions on "regional situations" in the east China Sea and South China and called for "Free and open Indo-Pacific". China has been trying to stake claim to the whole of South China Sea based on its so-called "nine-dash line" which has been rejected by an arbitral tribunal constituted under United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) in 2016. Key areas both Japan and Indian defence ministers discussed were on cooperation in third countries, on ways to counter disinformation and share lessons in humanitarian aid and disaster response amidst covid pandemic. In the defence sector, both sides have increased cooperation, especially with the signing of the Japan-India Agreement on Reciprocal Provision of Supplies and Services (ACSA). The Indian Navy and its Japanese counterpart both undertook bilateral exercise earlier this year and in the month of November under the umbrella of Malabar Naval exercises--India, Japan, US and Australian navies came together.

India, Japan discuss aggressive Chinese actions

Indian and Chinese officials on Friday sat for diplomatic talks as &nbsp;part of Working Mechanism for Consultation &amp; Coordination (WMCC) after more than two months with the top focus being disengagement and the next round of military talks.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/india-china-standoff-satellite-image-of-winter-at-galwan-valley-emerges-350823">In Pics:&nbsp;Satellite image of winter at Galwan Valley emerges</a>

A ministry of external affairs read out after the 20th round of WMCC said both sided "agreed that the next (9th) round of senior commanders meeting should be held at an early date" so that they can "work towards early and complete disengagement of troops along the LAC" something that New Delhi has been reiterating many times in the over 8 months-long stand-off.

The read out explained: "The two sides agreed that based on the guidance provided by senior leaders and the agreements reached between the two foreign ministers and special representatives, they would continue to work towards ensuring complete disengagement in all friction points along the LAC in the western sector at the earliest."

The talks took place virtually. The Indian side was led by joint secretary (East Asia), Ministry of External Affairs Naveen Srivastava and from the Chinese side, Director General of the Department of Boundary &amp; Oceanic Affairs was present. The last such meet happened on September 30.

Chinese foreign ministry in its statement said both sides, "agreed to earnestly implement" the five-point consensus reached by the foreign minister of both the countries after the meeting in Moscow earlier this year and, "focused on the disengagement of frontline troops" and "take concrete measures to deal with the issues on the ground to further deescalate the border situation." 
&nbsp; 
The Chinese side also called for holding the "9th round of Senior commanders meeting as soon as possible".

The next focus will be on the military round of talks. The last round of military talks occurred on November 6 and since then the stalemate continues as forces from both sides remained stationed at the Line of Actual Control(LAC) in eastern Ladakh.

2020 saw an aggressive China which not only violated the understanding and agreements with India on build-up but also indulged in action in Galwan Valley that killed 20 Indian soldiers in June.

Indian and Chinese officials on Friday sat for diplomatic talks as part of Working Mechanism for Consultation & Coordination (WMCC) after more than two months with the top focus being disengagement and the next round of military talks.

Indian and Chinese officials on Friday sat for diplomatic talks as part of Working Mechanism for Consultation & Coordination (WMCC) after more than two months with the top focus being disengagement and the next round of military talks. In Pics: Satellite image of winter at Galwan Valley emerges A ministry of external affairs read out after the 20th round of WMCC said both sided "agreed that the next (9th) round of senior commanders meeting should be held at an early date" so that they can "work towards early and complete disengagement of troops along the LAC" something that New Delhi has been reiterating many times in the over 8 months-long stand-off. The read out explained: "The two sides agreed that based on the guidance provided by senior leaders and the agreements reached between the two foreign ministers and special representatives, they would continue to work towards ensuring complete disengagement in all friction points along the LAC in the western sector at the earliest." The talks took place virtually. The Indian side was led by joint secretary (East Asia), Ministry of External Affairs Naveen Srivastava and from the Chinese side, Director General of the Department of Boundary & Oceanic Affairs was present. The last such meet happened on September 30. Chinese foreign ministry in its statement said both sides, "agreed to earnestly implement" the five-point consensus reached by the foreign minister of both the countries after the meeting in Moscow earlier this year and, "focused on the disengagement of frontline troops" and "take concrete measures to deal with the issues on the ground to further deescalate the border situation." The Chinese side also called for holding the "9th round of Senior commanders meeting as soon as possible". The next focus will be on the military round of talks. The last round of military talks occurred on November 6 and since then the stalemate continues as forces from both sides remained stationed at the Line of Actual Control(LAC) in eastern Ladakh. 2020 saw an aggressive China which not only violated the understanding and agreements with India on build-up but also indulged in action in Galwan Valley that killed 20 Indian soldiers in June.

India, China sit down for diplomatic talks after over two months; disengagement remains top focus

Amid the India-China standoff&nbsp;along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) in eastern Ladakh,&nbsp;the Cabinet on Wednesday cleared a proposal to secure telecom infrastructure by designating a "trusted source" for the purchase of equipment by service providers.

Under the provisions of this directive, the government will declare a list of trusted sources and trusted products for installation in the country's telecom network.

Also see:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/india-china-standoff-how-indian-army-is-preparing-to-take-on-chinas-pla-in-ladakhs-snow-clad-mountains-350186" hreflang="en">India-China standoff- How Indian Army is preparing to take on China's PLA in Ladakh's snow clad mountains</a>

"The methodology to designate trusted products will be devised by the designated authority, the National Cyber Security Coordinator. Telecom service providers are required to connect new devices that are designated trusted products," Law and Telecoms Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad&nbsp;told a news conference on Wednesday.

While Prasad did not name any company or country from which sourcing of equipment would not be allowed, some Indian government officials have privately expressed concerns over mobile carriers' use of telecom gear from Huawei, which the United States has accused of spying for China.

He added that the&nbsp;step has been taken to strengthen national security and further Atmanirbhar Bharat objectives including through the involvement of all stakeholders within government and in the private sector.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/us-congress-passes-defence-policy-bill-that-calls-out-chinese-aggression-against-india-350233" hreflang="en">US Congress passes bill that calls out Chinese aggression against India</a>

China and India have been locked in a military standoff along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) in eastern Ladakh since May this year. Several rounds of talks between the two countries to resolve the standoff have not yielded any concrete outcome.

"The list of the trusted source and product will be decided based on approval of a committee headed by the deputy national security advisor. The committee will consist of members from relevant departments, ministries and will also have two members from the industry and independent experts. The committee will be called the National Security Committee on Telecom," Prasad said.

The government will also create a list of designated sources from whom no procurement can be done.

"The present directive does not envisage mandatory replacement of the existing equipment already inducted in the network of TSPs," the minister said.

Huawei has previously denied spying allegations and said it is open to a "no backdoor" agreement with India to allay security concerns.

India has so far not banned Huawei or ZTE, and its telecoms department did not immediately respond to a request asking if the policy was aimed at Chinese gearmakers.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi's government has told two state-run telecoms firms to use locally-made rather than Chinese telecom equipment to upgrade their mobile networks to 4G.

India&nbsp;will auction 2,251 megahertz (MHz) of airwaves worth over 3.92 trillion rupees ($53.2 billion) across seven bands ranging from 700 MHz to 2500 MHz.

Reliance Industries chairman Mukesh Ambani, who controls India's biggest carrier Jio, has already said his company is looking to launch 5G services in the country in the second half of 2021.

Last year, the government banned imports of Chinese handsets without the International Mobile Equipment Identity, or IMEI, number, again citing security reasons such as the use of stolen handsets to make terror or hoax calls.

The IMEI number of a mobile phone is a 15-digit number unique to every mobile handset. It prevents stolen handsets from making calls and allows security agencies to track down a specific user.

Amid the India-China standoff along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) in eastern Ladakh, the Cabinet on Wednesday cleared a proposal to secure telecom infrastructure by designating a "trusted source" for the purchase of equipment by service providers.

Amid the India-China standoff along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) in eastern Ladakh, the Cabinet on Wednesday cleared a proposal to secure telecom infrastructure by designating a "trusted source" for the purchase of equipment by service providers. Under the provisions of this directive, the government will declare a list of trusted sources and trusted products for installation in the country's telecom network. Also see: India-China standoff- How Indian Army is preparing to take on China's PLA in Ladakh's snow clad mountains "The methodology to designate trusted products will be devised by the designated authority, the National Cyber Security Coordinator. Telecom service providers are required to connect new devices that are designated trusted products," Law and Telecoms Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad told a news conference on Wednesday. While Prasad did not name any company or country from which sourcing of equipment would not be allowed, some Indian government officials have privately expressed concerns over mobile carriers' use of telecom gear from Huawei, which the United States has accused of spying for China. He added that the step has been taken to strengthen national security and further Atmanirbhar Bharat objectives including through the involvement of all stakeholders within government and in the private sector. Also read: US Congress passes bill that calls out Chinese aggression against India China and India have been locked in a military standoff along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) in eastern Ladakh since May this year. Several rounds of talks between the two countries to resolve the standoff have not yielded any concrete outcome. "The list of the trusted source and product will be decided based on approval of a committee headed by the deputy national security advisor. The committee will consist of members from relevant departments, ministries and will also have two members from the industry and independent experts. The committee will be called the National Security Committee on Telecom," Prasad said. The government will also create a list of designated sources from whom no procurement can be done. "The present directive does not envisage mandatory replacement of the existing equipment already inducted in the network of TSPs," the minister said. Huawei has previously denied spying allegations and said it is open to a "no backdoor" agreement with India to allay security concerns. India has so far not banned Huawei or ZTE, and its telecoms department did not immediately respond to a request asking if the policy was aimed at Chinese gearmakers. Prime Minister Narendra Modi's government has told two state-run telecoms firms to use locally-made rather than Chinese telecom equipment to upgrade their mobile networks to 4G. India will auction 2,251 megahertz (MHz) of airwaves worth over 3.92 trillion rupees ($53.2 billion) across seven bands ranging from 700 MHz to 2500 MHz. Reliance Industries chairman Mukesh Ambani, who controls India's biggest carrier Jio, has already said his company is looking to launch 5G services in the country in the second half of 2021. Last year, the government banned imports of Chinese handsets without the International Mobile Equipment Identity, or IMEI, number, again citing security reasons such as the use of stolen handsets to make terror or hoax calls. The IMEI number of a mobile phone is a 15-digit number unique to every mobile handset. It prevents stolen handsets from making calls and allows security agencies to track down a specific user.

India-China standoff: Cabinet approves buying telecom equipment only from 'trusted' sources

India-China standoff- How Indian Army is preparing to take on China's PLA in Ladakh's snow clad mountains

Even has China has claimed that it has "strictly complied" with border agreements with India, New Delhi said it expects the "Chinese side will match its words with actions" even as the People's Liberation Army(PLA) continues the build-up along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) in eastern Ladakh.&nbsp;

Watch:

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Pointing out how the "situation that we have seen since the last six months has been a result of the actions of the Chinese side", ministry of external affairs spokesperson Anurag Shrivastava said China has "sought to effect a unilateral change in status along the LAC in eastern Ladakh" and "these actions are in violation of the bilateral agreements and protocol on ensuring peace and tranquillity along the LAC in the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/russia-gives-new-twist-to-india-china-standoff-at-lac-348671">India-China</a> border areas."

This year not only saw one of the longest build-ups by the Chinese at the LAC but also a violent clash at Galwan Valley which 20 Indian soldiers were killed in action.

India has repeatedly pointed out how China has been violating the 1993 and 1996 agreements. The violation includes the amassing of troops and attempts to take "unilateral action" to alter the situation at LAC.

Both sides have had multiple rounds of diplomatic and military talks, including two in-person meetings between defense and foreign ministers of the two countries but China has not done anything to defuse the situation on the ground.&nbsp;

New Delhi has been calling for an agreement on a "mutually acceptable solution" for ensuring "complete disengagement" in all friction points along the LAC but Beijing continues to drag its feet.

Even has China has claimed that it has "strictly complied" with border agreements with India, New Delhi said it expects the "Chinese side will match its words with actions" even as the People's Liberation Army(PLA) continues the build-up along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) in eastern Ladakh.

Even has China has claimed that it has "strictly complied" with border agreements with India, New Delhi said it expects the "Chinese side will match its words with actions" even as the People's Liberation Army(PLA) continues the build-up along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) in eastern Ladakh. Watch: Pointing out how the "situation that we have seen since the last six months has been a result of the actions of the Chinese side", ministry of external affairs spokesperson Anurag Shrivastava said China has "sought to effect a unilateral change in status along the LAC in eastern Ladakh" and "these actions are in violation of the bilateral agreements and protocol on ensuring peace and tranquillity along the LAC in the India-China border areas." This year not only saw one of the longest build-ups by the Chinese at the LAC but also a violent clash at Galwan Valley which 20 Indian soldiers were killed in action. India has repeatedly pointed out how China has been violating the 1993 and 1996 agreements. The violation includes the amassing of troops and attempts to take "unilateral action" to alter the situation at LAC. Both sides have had multiple rounds of diplomatic and military talks, including two in-person meetings between defense and foreign ministers of the two countries but China has not done anything to defuse the situation on the ground. New Delhi has been calling for an agreement on a "mutually acceptable solution" for ensuring "complete disengagement" in all friction points along the LAC but Beijing continues to drag its feet.

India-China standoff: Expect China to match words with action: India on LAC situation

India-China standoff: How India's T-90 Bhishma battle tank is outflanking China's PLA at LAC

India-China standoff: How Indian Navy's MARCOS can change the game along  Pangong lake in eastern Ladakh

The Indian government has launched a direct attack on Beijing until now New Delhi was sticking to the diplomatic code of conduct. In public the statements were non-confrontational, however, in private, India has been direct.

The Indian government wanted the Chinese troops to withdraw but China hasn't listened. So today, India spoke publicly. The development comes at a time when SFJ has been leading protests in Canada, US and UK in front of Indian missions in the name of "solidarity" for the farmer protests in India. 
&nbsp; 
External affairs minister S. Jaishankar says the India-China relationship has been significantly damaged this year and that it cannot be business as usual with China as long as the PLA is on the border.

Jaishankar was speaking to an American think-tank where he shared the latest assessment on China border standoff. Jaishankar said China is in a major breach of bilateral agreements. The Chinese side has given five different explanations to explain the provocation but failed to explain why they didn't adhere to the agreements.

In fact, the provocations haven't stopped. China has dispatched fighter aircraft and troops to a Pakistani airbase. It close to the Indian state of Gujarat. The deployment is for the Shaheen military exercise. Now, India has Chinese soldiers at the Line of Actual Control(LAC) in eastern Ladakh and in the west the Chinese have been conducting drills with Pakistan.

China hasn't responded to the Indian minister's statement, however, Russia has spoken on the border standoff and it is an interesting assessment from a country that has been India's strategic ally and major arms supplier.

Russia feels the West is engineering a split between Moscow and New Delhi, however, ignoring the Chinese aggression, Russian foreign minister Sergei Lavrov said Western powers are trying to engage India in an "anti-China" game.

"For instance, India is a matter of persistent, aggressive devious Western policy which tries to draw the country into anti-Chinese games, promoting so-called Indo-Pacific strategies," Russian foreign minister Sergey Lavrov said, adding, "and at the same time, (western policy tries to) weaken our close partnership, strategic, privileged relations with Indians. There is a very tough pressure undertaken by Americans on New Delhi, concerning (Indian) military technical cooperation (with Russia)."

No prizes for guessing who Lavrov is talking about - the United States of America. Russia has its own theory about the border standoff. In the statement, Lavrov referred to India as a "clear pole" in the world order.

He says the West wants to weaken India's alliances with different global powers to maintain what he calls a "unipolar" world order and with those words Moscow seems to have effectively given a clean chit to Beijing.

At the same time, Lavrov has drawn the attention of the world to the great "power game". The pandemic has shaken the world order. New alliances are taking shape and Russia doesn't want to lose an ally like India.

Global powers like Russia and the United States have been vying for India's partnership. India will have to hedge its bets and make sure its rise doesn't come with a compromise.

The Indian government has launched a direct attack on Beijing until now New Delhi was sticking to the diplomatic code of conduct. In public the statements were non-confrontational, however, in private, India has been direct.

The Indian government has launched a direct attack on Beijing until now New Delhi was sticking to the diplomatic code of conduct. In public the statements were non-confrontational, however, in private, India has been direct. The Indian government wanted the Chinese troops to withdraw but China hasn't listened. So today, India spoke publicly. The development comes at a time when SFJ has been leading protests in Canada, US and UK in front of Indian missions in the name of "solidarity" for the farmer protests in India. External affairs minister S. Jaishankar says the India-China relationship has been significantly damaged this year and that it cannot be business as usual with China as long as the PLA is on the border. Jaishankar was speaking to an American think-tank where he shared the latest assessment on China border standoff. Jaishankar said China is in a major breach of bilateral agreements. The Chinese side has given five different explanations to explain the provocation but failed to explain why they didn't adhere to the agreements. In fact, the provocations haven't stopped. China has dispatched fighter aircraft and troops to a Pakistani airbase. It close to the Indian state of Gujarat. The deployment is for the Shaheen military exercise. Now, India has Chinese soldiers at the Line of Actual Control(LAC) in eastern Ladakh and in the west the Chinese have been conducting drills with Pakistan. China hasn't responded to the Indian minister's statement, however, Russia has spoken on the border standoff and it is an interesting assessment from a country that has been India's strategic ally and major arms supplier. Russia feels the West is engineering a split between Moscow and New Delhi, however, ignoring the Chinese aggression, Russian foreign minister Sergei Lavrov said Western powers are trying to engage India in an "anti-China" game. "For instance, India is a matter of persistent, aggressive devious Western policy which tries to draw the country into anti-Chinese games, promoting so-called Indo-Pacific strategies," Russian foreign minister Sergey Lavrov said, adding, "and at the same time, (western policy tries to) weaken our close partnership, strategic, privileged relations with Indians. There is a very tough pressure undertaken by Americans on New Delhi, concerning (Indian) military technical cooperation (with Russia)." No prizes for guessing who Lavrov is talking about - the United States of America. Russia has its own theory about the border standoff. In the statement, Lavrov referred to India as a "clear pole" in the world order. He says the West wants to weaken India's alliances with different global powers to maintain what he calls a "unipolar" world order and with those words Moscow seems to have effectively given a clean chit to Beijing. At the same time, Lavrov has drawn the attention of the world to the great "power game". The pandemic has shaken the world order. New alliances are taking shape and Russia doesn't want to lose an ally like India. Global powers like Russia and the United States have been vying for India's partnership. India will have to hedge its bets and make sure its rise doesn't come with a compromise.

Russia gives new twist to India-China standoff at LAC

India's external affairs minister S Jaishankar has said ties with Beijing have "significantly damaged" this year in the backdrop of the Galwan incident and the ongoing buildup which has "completely changed national sentiment".

India lost 20 of its soldiers die to aggressive action by Chinese forces at Galwan Valley in June this year.

Speaking at a virtual event Jaishankar said, "we are today probably at the most difficult phase of our relationship with China. Certainly in the last 30-40 years. The last time there were military casualties on our borders was in 1975."

The Chinese forces had started build-up in April-march period and still continue&nbsp;to remain at the Line of Actual Control(LAC) in eastern Ladakh.

The EAM pointed out that direction of ties were "positive" since 1988, because while border issues were being discussed "you never had a major breach of this understanding" which included "not to bring large force".

"China has given India five&nbsp;different explanation on the current situation but a number of agreement are being violated by the country including bringing tens of thousands of soldiers in full military preparation mode right to the LAC in Ladakh" and&nbsp;"naturally the relationship will be profoundly disturbed by this", he said.

The big challenge he said is, "How do we get the relationship back is a very big issue, we are very clear maintaining peace and tranquillity at LAC is the basis of the rest of the relationship to progress."

A number of diplomatic and military talks have taken place between the two countries to defuse the situation.&nbsp;

EAM Jaishankar and&nbsp;defence minister Rajnath Singh both had met there respective counterparts in September in Moscow but the stand-off continues at the Line of Actual Control(LAC).

India's external affairs minister S Jaishankar has said ties with Beijing have "significantly damaged" this year in the backdrop of the Galwan incident and the ongoing buildup which has "completely changed national sentiment".

India's external affairs minister S Jaishankar has said ties with Beijing have "significantly damaged" this year in the backdrop of the Galwan incident and the ongoing buildup which has "completely changed national sentiment". India lost 20 of its soldiers die to aggressive action by Chinese forces at Galwan Valley in June this year. Speaking at a virtual event Jaishankar said, "we are today probably at the most difficult phase of our relationship with China. Certainly in the last 30-40 years. The last time there were military casualties on our borders was in 1975." The Chinese forces had started build-up in April-march period and still continue to remain at the Line of Actual Control(LAC) in eastern Ladakh. The EAM pointed out that direction of ties were "positive" since 1988, because while border issues were being discussed "you never had a major breach of this understanding" which included "not to bring large force". "China has given India five different explanation on the current situation but a number of agreement are being violated by the country including bringing tens of thousands of soldiers in full military preparation mode right to the LAC in Ladakh" and "naturally the relationship will be profoundly disturbed by this", he said. The big challenge he said is, "How do we get the relationship back is a very big issue, we are very clear maintaining peace and tranquillity at LAC is the basis of the rest of the relationship to progress." A number of diplomatic and military talks have taken place between the two countries to defuse the situation. EAM Jaishankar and defence minister Rajnath Singh both had met there respective counterparts in September in Moscow but the stand-off continues at the Line of Actual Control(LAC).

India, China ties significantly damaged this year: Jaishankar

To counter China,&nbsp;India's topmost representatives have travelled to five countries in its&nbsp;immediate and&nbsp;the extended neighbourhood.

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar is on a tour to West Asia,&nbsp;foreign secretary Harsh Shringla is on a tour of Nepal and&nbsp;National Security Advisor&nbsp;Ajit Doval is on a tour to Sri Lanka.

The high-profile visits of Indian diplomats to its neighbouring countries are being seen as an effort to wrest back the waning regional influence from China. India is embroiled in a deadly border showdown with China in eastern Ladakh since May and&nbsp;has sought closer military ties with other countries.

As per reports, the Ladakh border standoff is likely to extend through the winter. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi&nbsp;is advancing bilateral ties with countries where the security interests of both sides converge.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/nsa-ajit-doval-arrives-in-sri-lanka-to-attend-trilateral-maritime-dialogue-345789" hreflang="en">NSA Ajit Doval arrives in Sri Lanka to attend trilateral maritime dialogue</a>

Doval, India's National Security Advisor, arrived in Colombo on Friday for trilateral maritime dialogue among India, Sri Lanka and the Maldives. Sri Lanka will host the fourth national security advisor trilateral meeting on maritime security cooperation with India and Maldives on Friday and Saturday.

This will be the first NSA level meeting on Trilateral Maritime Security Cooperation. Besides Doval, Sri Lankan Defence Secretary Major General (Retd). Kamal Gunaratne and Maldives Defence Minister Mariya Didi will participate in the meeting.

To defeat China's unending unilateralism, the agenda of the meeting will be cooperation and collective action on security issues in the Indian Ocean region.

From the Hambantota port in Sri Lanka to a friendship bridge in the Maldives,&nbsp;China has been vying for greater control in the region.&nbsp;The maritime dialogue will be aimed at rehauling India's traditional sphere of influence.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/nepal-occupies-special-place-in-our-hearts-says-fs-harsh-v-shringla-345802" hreflang="en">Nepal occupies special place in our hearts, says FS Harsh V Shringla</a>

India's foreign secretary Harsh Shringla on Friday said Nepal holds a very special place in everybody's hearts. He said this as he inaugurated India-built projects during his visit to Kathmandu.&nbsp;

India is building 50,000 houses in the Gorkha and Nuwakot districts of Nepal, of which 46,000 have been built. Many houses in this area were damaged due to the 2015 Nepal earthquake.

On his first day of the visit, Shringla met the top political leadership of the Himalayan republic, from PM Oli to&nbsp;President Bidya Devi Bhandari.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/covid-19-energy-defence-key-focus-of-foreign-minister-jaishankars-uae-visit-345763" hreflang="en">Covid-19, energy, defence key focus of Foreign Minister Jaishankar's UAE visit</a>

Energy, Covid-19 cooperation, defence were the key focus areas of External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar's visit to United Arab Emirates (UAE) as he met the top leadership---Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan and foreign minister Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan.&nbsp;

The primary goal of these visits is securing India's interests in the Gulf.&nbsp;New Delhi is working towards protecting the interests of eight million Indians living and&nbsp;working in the region.&nbsp;At the same time big ticket-investments are being made to generate income&nbsp;and India is looking to offer investment opportunities.

Allies in the Gulf are also crucial for India while tackling the perpetual nuisance, Pakistan.&nbsp;

From West Asia to South Asia, there is a renewed push by New Delhi to secure the neighbourhood from growing challenges.

India is making a&nbsp;renewed effort to strengthen the strategic backyard and&nbsp;a strong message for China and Pakistan to mend their ways.

To counter China, India's topmost representatives have travelled to five countries in its immediate and the extended neighbourhood. External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar is on a tour to West Asia, foreign secretary Harsh Shringla is on a tour of Nepal and National Security Advisor Ajit Doval is on a tour to Sri Lanka.

To counter China, India's topmost representatives have travelled to five countries in its immediate and the extended neighbourhood. External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar is on a tour to West Asia, foreign secretary Harsh Shringla is on a tour of Nepal and National Security Advisor Ajit Doval is on a tour to Sri Lanka. The high-profile visits of Indian diplomats to its neighbouring countries are being seen as an effort to wrest back the waning regional influence from China. India is embroiled in a deadly border showdown with China in eastern Ladakh since May and has sought closer military ties with other countries. As per reports, the Ladakh border standoff is likely to extend through the winter. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is advancing bilateral ties with countries where the security interests of both sides converge. Also read: NSA Ajit Doval arrives in Sri Lanka to attend trilateral maritime dialogue Doval, India's National Security Advisor, arrived in Colombo on Friday for trilateral maritime dialogue among India, Sri Lanka and the Maldives. Sri Lanka will host the fourth national security advisor trilateral meeting on maritime security cooperation with India and Maldives on Friday and Saturday. This will be the first NSA level meeting on Trilateral Maritime Security Cooperation. Besides Doval, Sri Lankan Defence Secretary Major General (Retd). Kamal Gunaratne and Maldives Defence Minister Mariya Didi will participate in the meeting. To defeat China's unending unilateralism, the agenda of the meeting will be cooperation and collective action on security issues in the Indian Ocean region. From the Hambantota port in Sri Lanka to a friendship bridge in the Maldives, China has been vying for greater control in the region. The maritime dialogue will be aimed at rehauling India's traditional sphere of influence. Also read: Nepal occupies special place in our hearts, says FS Harsh V Shringla India's foreign secretary Harsh Shringla on Friday said Nepal holds a very special place in everybody's hearts. He said this as he inaugurated India-built projects during his visit to Kathmandu. India is building 50,000 houses in the Gorkha and Nuwakot districts of Nepal, of which 46,000 have been built. Many houses in this area were damaged due to the 2015 Nepal earthquake. On his first day of the visit, Shringla met the top political leadership of the Himalayan republic, from PM Oli to President Bidya Devi Bhandari. Also read: Covid-19, energy, defence key focus of Foreign Minister Jaishankar's UAE visit Energy, Covid-19 cooperation, defence were the key focus areas of External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar's visit to United Arab Emirates (UAE) as he met the top leadership---Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan and foreign minister Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan. The primary goal of these visits is securing India's interests in the Gulf. New Delhi is working towards protecting the interests of eight million Indians living and working in the region. At the same time big ticket-investments are being made to generate income and India is looking to offer investment opportunities. Allies in the Gulf are also crucial for India while tackling the perpetual nuisance, Pakistan. From West Asia to South Asia, there is a renewed push by New Delhi to secure the neighbourhood from growing challenges. India is making a renewed effort to strengthen the strategic backyard and a strong message for China and Pakistan to mend their ways.

India-China standoff: How India is countering China's aggression with 'neighbourhood diplomacy'

China on Thursday announced that Premier Li Keqiang will attend the 19th meeting of the council of the heads of government of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) member states to be held under India's chairmanship on Monday.

India will host the virtual meeting of the Heads of the Government of the eight-member bloc on November 30.

Premier Li will take part in the Heads of the Government meeting, Foreign Ministry spokesman Zhao Lijian announced at a media briefing.

Zhao said Li and other leaders will hold in-depth communication and exchange on deepening SCO cooperation amid the COVID-19 pandemic.

They will also build more consensus on cooperation and formulate more practical measures to seek greater synergy between the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) cooperation and national development strategies and regional cooperation initiatives, he said.

They will also discuss measures to enhance economic, trade, investment, production capacity, connectivity, culture and people to people cooperation, push national economic recovery, improve people's livelihood and promote faster and better development of SCO, he said.

On November 10, Russia organised the heads of state summit of the SCO through a video link which was attended by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping among others.

He said the recent summit of the SCO delivered fruitful results. Leaders of the participating countries drew up a blueprint and charted a course for organisations development in the next stage, Zhao said.

About the SCO, he said that since its founding 19 years ago, the SCO has maintained a sound and stable development momentum and successfully placed a new path of cooperation and development for regional organisations.

Against the backdrop of the COVID-19 pandemic, as well as ''complex and profound evolution''&nbsp;of the regional and international landscape, the SCO has an even more important mission to safeguard regional security and stability and promote development and prosperity of all countries, he said.

The SCO was founded at a summit in Shanghai in 2001 by the presidents of Russia, China, Kyrgyz Republic, Kazakhstan, Tajikistan and Uzbekistan. India and Pakistan became its members in 2017.

China on Thursday announced that Premier Li Keqiang will attend the 19th meeting of the council of the heads of government of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) member states to be held under India's chairmanship on Monday.

China on Thursday announced that Premier Li Keqiang will attend the 19th meeting of the council of the heads of government of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) member states to be held under India's chairmanship on Monday. India will host the virtual meeting of the Heads of the Government of the eight-member bloc on November 30. Premier Li will take part in the Heads of the Government meeting, Foreign Ministry spokesman Zhao Lijian announced at a media briefing. Zhao said Li and other leaders will hold in-depth communication and exchange on deepening SCO cooperation amid the COVID-19 pandemic. They will also build more consensus on cooperation and formulate more practical measures to seek greater synergy between the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) cooperation and national development strategies and regional cooperation initiatives, he said. They will also discuss measures to enhance economic, trade, investment, production capacity, connectivity, culture and people to people cooperation, push national economic recovery, improve people's livelihood and promote faster and better development of SCO, he said. On November 10, Russia organised the heads of state summit of the SCO through a video link which was attended by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping among others. He said the recent summit of the SCO delivered fruitful results. Leaders of the participating countries drew up a blueprint and charted a course for organisations development in the next stage, Zhao said. About the SCO, he said that since its founding 19 years ago, the SCO has maintained a sound and stable development momentum and successfully placed a new path of cooperation and development for regional organisations. Against the backdrop of the COVID-19 pandemic, as well as ''complex and profound evolution'' of the regional and international landscape, the SCO has an even more important mission to safeguard regional security and stability and promote development and prosperity of all countries, he said. The SCO was founded at a summit in Shanghai in 2001 by the presidents of Russia, China, Kyrgyz Republic, Kazakhstan, Tajikistan and Uzbekistan. India and Pakistan became its members in 2017.

Chinese Premier Li to attend SCO Heads of Government meet hosted by India

Parliamentary panel chairperson Meenakshi Lekhi told newswire PTI on Wednesday that Twitter has apologised in writing for showing <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/leh-row-deliberate-attempt-to-undermine-will-of-parliament-says-indias-it-ministry-to-twitter-342689">Ladakh</a> in China.

Watch:

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/indian-govt-sends-notice-to-twitter-as-it-shows-leh-as-part-of-jammu-kashmir-342831/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Lekhi told the wire service that Twitter's affidavit was signed by Damien Karien, chief privacy officer of Twitter after it wrongly geo-tagged India's map. Lekhi added that Twitter has apologised for hurting Indian sentiments and has sworn to correct the error by November 30, 2020.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-govt-issues-stern-warning-to-twitter-over-settings-showing-leh-in-china-337088">Also Read:&nbsp;Indian govt issues stern warning to Twitter over settings showing Leh in China</a>

"Twitter has now given us a written apology on an affidavit for Ladakh being shown in China," Lekhi said, adding, "They have apologised for hurting Indian sentiments and have sworn to correct the error by November 30, 2020."

The Indian government had earlier expressed dismay over Twitter's misrepresentation of the Indian map.

IT Secretary Ajay Sawhney had written to Twitter CEO Jack Dorsey after the social media giant showed geo-location of Leh in Jammu and Kashmir as a Chinese region.

The Indian government asked Twitter to respect the sensitivities of Indians and asserted that any effort to disrespect the sovereignty and integrity of India was completely unacceptable and unlawful.

Twitter on its part had said it was a "technical" issue and it would be resolved swiftly.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Parliamentary panel chairperson Meenakshi Lekhi told newswire PTI on Wednesday that Twitter has apologised in writing for showing Ladakh in China. Watch: Lekhi told the wire service that Twitter's affidavit was signed by Damien Karien, chief privacy officer of Twitter after it wrongly geo-tagged India's map.

Parliamentary panel chairperson Meenakshi Lekhi told newswire PTI on Wednesday that Twitter has apologised in writing for showing Ladakh in China. Watch: Lekhi told the wire service that Twitter's affidavit was signed by Damien Karien, chief privacy officer of Twitter after it wrongly geo-tagged India's map. Lekhi added that Twitter has apologised for hurting Indian sentiments and has sworn to correct the error by November 30, 2020. Also Read: Indian govt issues stern warning to Twitter over settings showing Leh in China "Twitter has now given us a written apology on an affidavit for Ladakh being shown in China," Lekhi said, adding, "They have apologised for hurting Indian sentiments and have sworn to correct the error by November 30, 2020." The Indian government had earlier expressed dismay over Twitter's misrepresentation of the Indian map. IT Secretary Ajay Sawhney had written to Twitter CEO Jack Dorsey after the social media giant showed geo-location of Leh in Jammu and Kashmir as a Chinese region. The Indian government asked Twitter to respect the sensitivities of Indians and asserted that any effort to disrespect the sovereignty and integrity of India was completely unacceptable and unlawful. Twitter on its part had said it was a "technical" issue and it would be resolved swiftly.

Twitter apologises to Indian government for showing Ladakh in China

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will attend a virtual summit of the influential grouping BRICS on Tuesday which will focus on cooperation in counter-terrorism, trade, health, energy, and ways to offset the impact of the coronavirus pandemic.

Chinese President Xi Jinping, Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro, and Russian President Vladimir Putin are scheduled to attend the 12th summit of the Brazil-Russia-India-China-South Africa (BRICS) grouping.

The BRICS summit is taking place at a time two of the bloc's members, India and China, are locked in a bitter border standoff in eastern Ladakh for over six months. Both Modi and Xi had come face-to-face virtually at the annual summit of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) on November 10.

"At the invitation of President Putin, Prime Minister Narendra Modi will be attending the 12th BRICS Summit hosted by Russia, under the theme 'Global Stability, Shared Security and Innovative Growth' on November 17," the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said in a statement.

The BRICS is known as an influential bloc that represents over 3.6 billion people, or half of the world's population. The BRICS countries have a combined GDP of USD 16.6 trillion.

The MEA said the leaders would be discussing intra-BRICS cooperation and key issues in the global context, including the reform of the multilateral system, measures to mitigate the impact of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, cooperation in counter-terrorism, trade, health, energy and people-to-people exchanges.

"India will be taking over the chair of the BRICS, which would be the third BRICS Presidency for India since its inception (after 2012 and 2016) and will host the 13th BRICS summit in 2021," the MEA said.&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will attend a virtual summit of the influential grouping BRICS on Tuesday which will focus on cooperation in counter-terrorism, trade, health, energy, and ways to offset the impact of the coronavirus pandemic.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will attend a virtual summit of the influential grouping BRICS on Tuesday which will focus on cooperation in counter-terrorism, trade, health, energy, and ways to offset the impact of the coronavirus pandemic. Chinese President Xi Jinping, Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro, and Russian President Vladimir Putin are scheduled to attend the 12th summit of the Brazil-Russia-India-China-South Africa (BRICS) grouping. The BRICS summit is taking place at a time two of the bloc's members, India and China, are locked in a bitter border standoff in eastern Ladakh for over six months. Both Modi and Xi had come face-to-face virtually at the annual summit of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) on November 10. "At the invitation of President Putin, Prime Minister Narendra Modi will be attending the 12th BRICS Summit hosted by Russia, under the theme 'Global Stability, Shared Security and Innovative Growth' on November 17," the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said in a statement. The BRICS is known as an influential bloc that represents over 3.6 billion people, or half of the world's population. The BRICS countries have a combined GDP of USD 16.6 trillion. The MEA said the leaders would be discussing intra-BRICS cooperation and key issues in the global context, including the reform of the multilateral system, measures to mitigate the impact of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, cooperation in counter-terrorism, trade, health, energy and people-to-people exchanges. "India will be taking over the chair of the BRICS, which would be the third BRICS Presidency for India since its inception (after 2012 and 2016) and will host the 13th BRICS summit in 2021," the MEA said.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi to attend virtual summit of BRICS on Tuesday

Shanghai Cooperation Organization or SCO virtual summit will take place tomorrow starting at 2.30 pm IST and is expected to last two and a half hours.

The summit, being hosted by Russia as the chair of the grouping for this year will see the participation of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Chinese President Xi Jinping, Russian President Putin, Pakistan's Prime Minister Imran Khan, and leaders of 4 central Asian countries. 4 central Asian members of the SCO are: Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan.

Minister of external affairs spokesperson Anurag Shrivastava&nbsp;said, "PM will lead the Indian delegation to the 20th summit of SCO Council of heads of state which will be held in the virtual format on 10th of November. The meeting will be chaired by President Putin of the Russian Federation".

This is the 3rd meeting in which India will be participating as full members. New Delhi was granted the observer status of SCO in 2005 and in June 2017 it became a full member.

Both Pakistan and China have confirmed participation. This will be the first time PM Modi and Chinese President Xi will be sharing a platform virtually after the Galwan incident.&nbsp;

The Galwan&nbsp;incident saw the death of 20 Indian soldiers due to Chinese aggressiveness at the line of actual control in eastern Ladakh. China also suffered casualties but never came out with figures. Ties between the two&nbsp;countries deteriorating as Chinese troops massed at the LAC.

All in All, PM Modi and President Xi will be together 3 times this month, first at SCO heads of state virtual summit, BRICS virtual summit on 17th November and then the G20 virtual summit on 21st and 22nd November.

Interestingly, Indian and Pakistani PMs will also be on the same virtual platform. Last time they PM Modi and Imran khan were under the same roof were at the UNGA dinner and lunch last year in New York. Given the tensions in ties post-Pulwama terror attack, no meeting took place.

Shanghai Cooperation Organization or SCO virtual summit will take place tomorrow starting at 2.30 pm IST and is expected to last two and a half hours. The summit, being hosted by Russia as the chair of the grouping for this year will see the participation of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Chinese President Xi Jinping, Russian President Putin, Pakistan's Prime Minister Imran Khan, and leaders of 4 central Asian countries.

Shanghai Cooperation Organization or SCO virtual summit will take place tomorrow starting at 2.30 pm IST and is expected to last two and a half hours. The summit, being hosted by Russia as the chair of the grouping for this year will see the participation of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Chinese President Xi Jinping, Russian President Putin, Pakistan's Prime Minister Imran Khan, and leaders of 4 central Asian countries. 4 central Asian members of the SCO are: Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan. Minister of external affairs spokesperson Anurag Shrivastava said, "PM will lead the Indian delegation to the 20th summit of SCO Council of heads of state which will be held in the virtual format on 10th of November. The meeting will be chaired by President Putin of the Russian Federation". This is the 3rd meeting in which India will be participating as full members. New Delhi was granted the observer status of SCO in 2005 and in June 2017 it became a full member. Both Pakistan and China have confirmed participation. This will be the first time PM Modi and Chinese President Xi will be sharing a platform virtually after the Galwan incident. The Galwan incident saw the death of 20 Indian soldiers due to Chinese aggressiveness at the line of actual control in eastern Ladakh. China also suffered casualties but never came out with figures. Ties between the two countries deteriorating as Chinese troops massed at the LAC. All in All, PM Modi and President Xi will be together 3 times this month, first at SCO heads of state virtual summit, BRICS virtual summit on 17th November and then the G20 virtual summit on 21st and 22nd November. Interestingly, Indian and Pakistani PMs will also be on the same virtual platform. Last time they PM Modi and Imran khan were under the same roof were at the UNGA dinner and lunch last year in New York. Given the tensions in ties post-Pulwama terror attack, no meeting took place.

SCO virtual summit tomorrow; Modi, Xi to share platform for the first time since Galwan