JOHANNESBURG: Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping have reached an agreement to withdraw more troops from both sides of the Line of Actual Control (LAC) to end the India-China standoff on the western border. The crucial decision was taken at the meeting held during the BRICS summit concluded in Johannesburg.

Foreign Affairs Secretary Vinay Kwatra said that the two leaders agreed to issue directives to officials for a speedy troop withdrawal and to take measures to de-escalate tensions. In his conversation with Xi Jinping, Prime Minister Modi highlighted India's concern over unresolved issues along the LAC. He said that to normalize India-China relations, it is imperative to maintain peace and tranquility in the border areas and respect the Line of Control. It is indicated that Xi Jinping responded favorably to Modi's proposals.