Independence Day 2018: Indian, Chinese Armies show warmth in Sikkim

Officials of India's Army and China's People Liberation Army (PLA) met at Nathu La on the Indian side of Sikkim to celebrate India's Independence Day on Wednesday.

Last year, in August, a standoff started between the two Armies in Doklam close to Nathu La. It was resolved after 73 days through diplomatic intervention.

The special Border Personnel Meeting (BPM) is part of a protocol to jointly celebrate festivities. The Indian Army participated in PLA's Founding Day on August 1.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping met in Wuhan in April and decided to issue strategic guidance to their militaries aimed at de-escalating tension after the Doklam standoff.

Earlier on May 1, observed as Labour Day, the first BPM was held at Chushul-Moldo meeting point on the Chinese side in the Ladakh sector soon after the two leaders met.

CULTURE ON DISPLAY 

‘The celebration took place in an atmosphere of warmth and friendship,’ the Army said. A programme portraying cultural diversity of both nations was also held. Pleasantries were exchanged in Kongra La.