India-China annual meeting of border troops on May 1 put off

Ajay Banerjee

Tribune News Service

New Delhi, April 30

Covid-19 has seemingly impacted a key confidence-building measure (CBM) between India and China. The annual ceremonial Border Personnel Meeting (BPMs) hosted by China on May 1 has been put-off.

May 1 is “International Labour Day” and on this day the People’s Liberation Army of China hosts the Indian Army units at five different locations along the 3,448-km Line of Actual Control (LAC).

There has been no invitation from the PLA China, Indian Officials confirmed to The Tribune on Thursday. No new dates have been, they said.

Indian Army will wish their Chinese counterparts over telephone at three locations – two of these in eastern Ladakh and one in Arunachal Pradesh.

In all there are five BPM points Moldo and Spangur gap (Chusul) in Ladakh, Natu La Sikkim and Bum La and Kibithoo Arunachal Pradesh.

Commanders of both sides have a telephone connection to speak and convene a meeting in case of any violations along the undemarcated LAC.  

India hosts such ceremonial meetings on January 26 and August 15. China hosts two, one on May 1 and another one in October to mark PLA day.

The ceremonial meeting is almost a daylong affair with families of either side attending it. Cultural events are hosted and a lunch is hosted. The ceremonial BPM’s are a CBM for maintaining peace and tranquillity and improving relations at functional level at the border areas.

The meetings are commenced by saluting the national flag by members of the delegations. This was followed by the ceremonial address by delegation leaders and exchange of greetings and gifts.