India's trust in China over agreements related to patrolling along the LAC has been cautious, given the historical context and recent tensions between the two nations. However, the news that the two neighbours have reached an agreement on patrolling along the LAC in eastern Ladakh leading to disengagement with Chinese President Xi Jinping and Indian PM Narendra Modi meeting on the sidelines at BRICS summit in Russia for their formal talks in five years, is a welcome development. After the 2020 border clashes, India and China embarked on adversarial paths, with both nations deploying thousands of troops and military equipment to the border region to prevent further escalations. Going by its track record, China is in the habit of not respecting and following agreements in letter and spirit. The latest development can prove to be a game-changer if China exhibits sincerity and withdraws its troops from all friction points. While being cautious, India cannot treat business as usual with China. Importantly, New Delhi must confront some hard truths to protect itself from falling for another Chinese trap.
