Some optimistic signs but little substantial progress emerged from the latest round of border talks between China and India, according to analysts.
The two countries held another round of commander-level talks on Friday, the 15th such meeting since bloody clashes along the western section of their de facto border, the Line of Actual Control (LAC), in June 2020.
"The two sides carried forward their discussions from the previous round held on January 12, 2022 for the resolution of the relevant issues along the LAC in the Western Sector," China and India said in a joint statement on Saturday night.
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"The two sides also agreed to maintain security and stability on the ground in the western sector in the interim. They agreed to maintain dialogue via military and diplomatic channels to reach a mutually acceptable resolution of the remaining issues at the earliest."
Although troops have completely disengaged at some hot spots since the talks began, the content of the joint statement was much the same as that released after the 14th round, suggesting little movement in other areas.
However, Rajeev Ranjan Chaturvedy, a professor at Nalanda University, said the latest statement appeared optimistic "if we read between the lines".
"Perhaps commanders have reached an understanding but due to high sensitivity and complexities, it may require further discussion with higher authorities," Chaturvedy said.
"If you look at statements from the 13th to 15th rounds, there is a gradual improvement in mutual understanding.
"So, if we don't get a breakthrough, at least defrosting has started."
The 13th round of talks in October ended with each side blaming the other - Beijing accused New Delhi of making unreasonable demands and Delhi accused Beijing of failing to provide a "forward-looking proposal".
Lin Minwang, a professor in South Asia studies at the Institute of International Studies at Fudan University, agreed with Chaturvedy.
"While there does not seem to be a lot of substantial progress, at least we can tell from the statement that the atmosphere was alright, and there was no finger-pointing language involved. We should consider this as progress already," Lin said.
"On anything substantial, India's side is also very hardline. It is not easy to solve."