India-China 33rd WMCC Meeting

Context of the Meeting

• The 33rd meeting of the Working Mechanism for Consultation and Coordination (WMCC) on India-China Border Affairs was held in Beijing.
• Discussions focused on the early resumption of cross-border cooperation and exchanges, including:
  • Trans-border rivers
  • Kailash-Mansarovar Yatra

Main Outcomes

• Discussions were held in a positive, constructive, and forward-looking manner.
• The meeting reviewed the situation along the Line of Actual Control (LAC).
• Both sides reiterated that peace and tranquillity at the border are crucial for the overall development of bilateral relations.

2. Preparations for Next SR Meeting

• Both countries agreed to make substantial preparations for the next Special Representatives (SR) meeting, to be hosted in India later in 2025.

3. Border Management Focus

• Measures were discussed to implement decisions from the 23rd SR meeting (held in December 2024 in Beijing).
• Emphasis was placed on advancing effective border management and maintaining diplomatic and military communication mechanisms.

Leadership and Participation

• Indian delegation: Led by Gourangalal Das, Joint Secretary (East Asia).
• Chinese delegation: Led by Hong Liang, Director General, Boundary and Oceanic Affairs.
• High-level courtesy call: Mr. Das met Assistant Foreign Minister Hong Lei.
• Representatives from foreign affairs, defence, interior, and immigration departments of both nations participated.

Current Border Status

1. Disengagement Achievements

• In November 2024, both nations completed disengagement at Demchok and Depsang in eastern Ladakh, returning to pre-April 2020 status quo.
• Patrolling has resumed in these two areas.

2. Pending Challenges

• Buffer zones remain in place at the earlier five friction points where disengagement was completed.
• No clear consensus yet on new patrolling norms or resumption protocols in these buffer areas.

Way Forward

The 33rd WMCC meeting highlighted a mutual commitment to dialogue, border stability, and progressive resolution of issues.

• While significant progress has been made with disengagement, buffer zones and new patrolling arrangements remain areas for future negotiation.
• The upcoming Special Representatives meeting in India will likely be a key moment for advancing agreements on border management and re-establishing trust.