As per a defence source, the dialogues on Saturday between the military commanders of India and China focused on resolution at Gogra heights where soldiers have been in a military standoff since May last year.
After Galwan valley and Pangong Tso where troops from both armies will withdraw from forward positions, PP 17A could be the third point. An earlier round of disengagement at Gogra took place after the Galwan valley clash last year but the PLA retained a smaller detachment of troops at the Line of Actual Control, a deployment mirrored by the Indian Army. The talks also included disengagement at Patrolling Point 15 at Hot Springs, with expectations of progress there as well.
While options for disengagement were discussed, a final decision will be considered by the political leadership on both sides. A fast-paced disengagement at Gogra seems to be achievable, inside sources said.
The dialogues were described as constructive, which have led to further enhanced mutual understanding. “They agreed to resolve remaining issues in an expeditious manner in accordance with the existing agreements and protocols and maintain the momentum of dialogue and negotiations,” the statement stated.
