Upset with this development, the EAM underlined that this unprecedented development will have a serious impact on the bilateral relationship.

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar held a telephonic conversation with China’s State Councillor and Foreign Minister Wang Yi and conveyed in the strongest terms the Indian government’s protest on the violent face-off in the Galwan Valley on June 15.

As many as 20 Indian soldiers, including a colonel rank official were killed and several others were injured when they had a face-off with the Chinese PLA troops in the Galwan Valley.

Upset with this development, the EAM underlined that this unprecedented development will have a serious impact on the bilateral relationship.

EAM Jaishankar recalled that at the meeting of senior military commanders on June 6, an agreement was reached on de-escalation and disengagement along the Line of Actual Control (LAC).

“Ground commanders were meeting regularly to implement this consensus throughout the last week. While there was some progress, the Chinese side sought to erect a structure in the Galwan Valley on our side of the LAC,” the EAM said, adding while this became a source of dispute, the Chinese side took pre-meditated and planned action that was directly responsible for the resulting violence and casualties.

“It reflected intent to change the facts on ground in violation of all our agreements to not change the status quo,” S Jaishankar said.

He reminded the Chinese Foreign Minister that the need of the hour was for the Chinese side to reassess its actions and take corrective steps. The two sides should scrupulously and sincerely implement the understanding that was reached by the Senior Commanders on June 6.

“Troops of both sides should also abide by the bilateral agreements and protocols. They should strictly respect and observe the LAC and should not take any unilateral action to alter it,” EAM Jaishankar said.

The Chinese Foreign Minister on his part conveyed his country’s position on the recent developments.

As per a note from the MEA, at the conclusion of the discussion, it was agreed that the overall situation would be handled in a responsible manner, and both sides would implement the disengagement understanding of June 6 sincerely. Neither side would take any action to escalate matters and instead, ensure peace and tranquillity as per bilateral agreements and protocols.