The fact that the two Special Representatives on the Boundary Question, NSA #AjitDoval and #Chinese FM #WangYi spoke is a positive development.They seem to have had a substantive and in-depth conversation. I hope this conversation widens the way to a durable reduction of tensions

The Chinese MFA statement after the conversation speaks of the current situation in bilateral relations being complex and need to work “together to overcome and turn it around as soon as possible”. The need to “guide public opinion in the right direction “ is mentioned.

The need to jointly uphold the “big picture” in bilateral relations is emphasized. Four understandings were reached: maintaining peace and tranquillity in the border areas matters significantly to the relationship, two, previous agreements on this subject should be observed;

Three, communication through the SR mechanism and the WMCC should be strengthened “without interruption “ and CBMs improved to prevent recurrence of confrontation/incidents; four, complete disengagement process between border troops.

Indian statement focuses more on need to complete disengagement process expeditiously,“strictly respect and observe the LAC” and not to take unilateral action to alter status quo. There is no talk of “big picture” in bilateral relations . The focus is entirely on LAC situation.

I hope this conversation spells a way out of the inglorious mess that bilateral relations have been sunk in for the last few weeks. It is still too early to make a firm prognosis. The Chinese seem to be belching less fire than before, their tone is more temperate. Hum dekhenge.