GUWAHATI: Border Personnel Meet (BPM) with China was held at new location called Kepang La (In Siyang valley of Arunachal Pradesh) between Indian Army and People’s Liberation Army (PLA) troops on August 15 thereby marking a historic day in Indo-China Relationship. The Indian Army delegation was led by Col Manish Joshi and PLA delegation was led by Col Chen Sau Feng, according to Kohima-based Defence spokesman.
The Indian Army and PLA delegations had eight members each and both sides welcomed the opportunity for opening of this new location allowing for a better contact process to resolve any issues in times to come. After the initial welcome address from both sides, gifts were exchanged. Both sides affirmed their resolve to enhance mutual understanding and cooperation for maintaining peace and tranquility along the Line of Actual Control.
Meanwhile there was another BPM held at Kibithu, on the Indian side of the LAC to celebrate the 72nd Independence Day of the Country. The Indian delegation was led by a Brigadier of the Dao Division while the Chinese delegation was led by Sr Colonel Liwen Jian. The two delegations comprised of military officials from each side.
The Kibithu-Damai Border meeting mechanism was started as a confidence building measure to resolve local boundary issues and has been instrumental in maintaining peace and tranquility along the LAC since 2014.
The Indian delegation, welcoming the Chinese side expressed the hope that coming together of troops from both side would facilitate development of mutual cooperation. The Indian side also presented a cultural programme in the honour of the Chinese delegation showcasing the rich culture and heritage of the country. Both sides agreed that joint celebrations signified the importance attached by the two countries to enhance the trust and cooperation and hoped that such interactions would continue to foster the environment of mutual confidence and understanding.