Jaishankar Rules Out Third-Party Mediation Again

India and China conducted the 30th meeting of the Working Mechanism for Consultation and Coordination (WMCC) on border affairs in New Delhi, focusing on resolving the ongoing standoff along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) in eastern Ladakh. Both sides agreed to maintain momentum through diplomatic and military channels to restore peace and normalcy in bilateral relations. External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar emphasized that the India-China border dispute should be resolved bilaterally without third-party intervention. Jaishankar highlighted that the relationship between the two countries remains strained due to past violations by China during the COVID-19 pandemic, which led to clashes and fatalities. Meetings between Jaishankar and Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi reaffirmed the need for mutual respect of the LAC and adherence to prior agreements to achieve disengagement. The discussions are part of ongoing efforts to find a peaceful resolution to the border issues that have persisted since 2020.