On Tuesday (12th March), India condemned China’s comments about Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s recent visit to Arunachal Pradesh. Randhir Jaiswal, Spokesperson of the External Affairs Ministry, stated in a clear statement that China’s objection to the Prime Minister’s travel to the northeastern state “does not stand to reason”.
The government further stated that Arunachal Pradesh “was, is, and will always be an integral and inalienable part of India”.
India’s say on China’s comments
“We condemn the Chinese side’s statements regarding the Prime Minister’s travel to Arunachal Pradesh. Indian politicians make periodic visits to Arunachal Pradesh, just as they do to other Indian states. It is not reasonable to object to such trips or India’s developmental efforts. Furthermore, it would not affect the fact that Arunachal Pradesh has always been and will continue to be an important and inalienable part of India. (The) Chinese side has been fully aware of this consistent position on several occasions,” the statement said.
On March 9, Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited Arunachal Pradesh to launch the Sela Tunnel, world’s largest twin-lane tunnel. China stated that its government has had “never recognised the so-called Arunachal Pradesh illegally established by India and strongly opposes it.”
Wang’s statement
Wang Wenbin, spokeswoman for the Chinese Foreign Ministry, made the comment on Monday in response to a query on Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Arunachal Pradesh.
“The area of Zangnan is Chinese territory,” Wang went on to say. Wang’s words reflect China’s long-standing claim to Arunachal Pradesh, sometimes known as ‘South Tibet.’
The Chinese Foreign Minister went on to say, “India’s relevant moves will only complicate the boundary question and disrupt the situation in the border areas between the two countries.”
Arunachal Pradesh- part of India
While India continues to exert its authority over Arunachal Pradesh by economic projects such as the Sela Tunnel, China has opposed India’s position, regarding such activities as provocative. The Sela Tunnel, underlined by the defence Ministry for its strategic importance in maintaining all-weather communication and enhancing defence preparation, is viewed by China as an unwanted statement of Indian power.
The recent debate between the two neighbours highlights the continuous complexity and sensitivities in their bilateral relations, particularly in light of past and contemporary territorial issues.
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