Pakistan watches China-India border thaw with mixed feelings over Kashmir

Islamabad is frustrated that New Delhi isn’t keen to resume diplomatic talks over their disputed Kashmir border, analysts say

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Indian and Chinese soldiers greet each other along the Line of Actual Control near Karakoram Pass on Thursday. Photo: AFP

Published: 4:00pm, 3 Nov 2024

Pakistan is watching with a mix of relief and concern as its close ally China and arch-rival India seek to de-escalate a four-year stand-off along their disputed Himalayan border.

While Islamabad has remained officially silent on the recent military repositioning, analysts say the easing of tensions at the point in Kashmir where their three frontiers meet is welcomed news.

“Any development that contributes to the stability and security of the region will be welcome in Pakistan,” said Maleeha Lodhi, a former Pakistani ambassador to Britain, the United States, and the United Nations.

De-escalation of Sino-Indian tensions is “good news for South Asia at a time when the situation is so fraught elsewhere in the world”, she said.

Chinese President Xi Jinping shakes hands with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on the sidelines of the 16th Brics summit in Kazan, Russia, on October 23. Photo: Xinhua

India’s Ministry of External Affairs announced an agreement with China on October 21 for “disengagement and resolution of issues” in border areas, following violent clashes that resulted in the deaths of 24 soldiers in June 2020.

The Chinese foreign ministry subsequently confirmed that both sides had “reached a solution” after “close communication” through diplomatic and military channels.