The Chinese statement mentioned the exchange of “candid and in-depth” views on the border situation and how both sides should earnestly implement the “important consensus” reached between the Foreign Ministers during their June 17 phone conversation, and “actively cooperate” with the armed forces to implement outcomes reached at the June 6 and June 22 military talks.
The Chinese Defence Ministry, however, struck a jarring note, echoing Beijing’s claim to the Galwan Valley. “China has sovereignty over the Galwan Valley region and the Chinese border troops have been patrolling and on duty in this region for many years,” it said. This is the first time that the Chinese armed forces have staked claim to an area that India says is well within its territory.
With inputs from The Indian Express