India and China hold BPM in Arunachal

[caption id="attachment_201443" align="aligncenter" width="565"] Members of the Indian delegation presenting gifts to their Chinese counterparts during the ‘border personnel meet’ at Kepang La in Siyang valley of Arunachal Pradesh on August 15.[/caption] Dimapur, Aug. 16 (EMN): A Border Personnel Meet (BPM) between the Indian Army (IA) and People’s Liberation Army (PLA) of China was held at Kepang La in Siyang valley of Arunachal Pradesh on August 15 marking a historic day in Indo-China relationship. The IA delegation was led by Col. Manish Joshi, while PLA delegation was led by Col. Chen Sau Feng. According to defence release issued by PRO Col. C Konwar, IA and PLA delegations had eight members each and both sides welcomed the opportunity for opening of a 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 tranquillity along the Line of Actual Control, the statement said. Meanwhile, another BPM was 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 tranquillity along the LAC since 2014, it added. The Indian counterpart expressed 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.