Indian Defence Minister Rajnath Singh has expressed confidence that the ongoing talks between China and India for a peaceful resolution of the eastern Ladakh standoff will continue while Indian troops stand "firm" in the region. In an address at a conference of the top Army Commanders, he said ensuring the availability of the best weapons, equipment and clothing to the troops braving extreme weather and "hostile forces" to defend territorial integrity is a national responsibility.

He also commended the Army for its firm response to cross-border terrorism, news agencies said. 

Commenting on the current situation along the northern borders, he expressed confidence that while troops are standing firm, the ongoing talks for peaceful resolution of crisis will continue," the defence ministry said in a statement.

His comments came over two weeks after the 13th round of military talks between Indian and Chinese armies ended in a stalemate.

In a strong statement after the talks, the Indian Army said the "constructive suggestions" made by it at the negotiations were neither agreeable to the Chinese side nor could Beijing provide any "forward-looking" proposals.