In an expression of disapproval, the External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar strongly denounced China’s assertions regarding the territory of Arunachal Pradesh, emphasizing its integral status within India. Labeling China’s assertions as ‘absurd,’ the EAM reaffirmed that Arunachal Pradesh’s affiliation with India is inherent to its identity, rather than being contingent upon external recognition.

Delivering his remarks at the Institute of South Asian Studies of the National University of Singapore, as part of his itinerary spanning three nations, Jaishankar elucidated on the themes explored in his book ‘Why Bharat Matters.’ In response to inquiries raised during the event, Jaishankar articulated, “This issue is not novel. China has persistently asserted and expanded its claims. These assertions were implausible from their inception and remain so today. Arunachal Pradesh’s association with India is predicated on its intrinsic belonging to the nation, irrespective of external narratives.”

“We have consistently maintained clarity and coherence on this matter. It forms an integral component of the ongoing discussions regarding territorial demarcation,” he added. China recently reiterated its claims over Arunachal Pradesh, referring to the Indian state as “Zangnan,” an assertion contested by India, which deemed it “unfounded” and “baseless,” emphasizing the state’s inseparable bond with the Indian Union.

Further addressing the gathering, Jaishankar admonished China for disrupting the equilibrium along the border, particularly referencing the 2020 border confrontation. “Establishing a sustainable equilibrium between two ascendant powers, distinguished by their unique histories and demographics, presents a multifaceted challenge,” he remarked.

He continued, “When endeavoring to tackle formidable tasks, it is imperative to uphold existing agreements to mitigate potential disruptions.” Expressing dismay over China’s actions in 2020, Jaishankar emphasized the imperative of preserving “serenity and stability” along the border.

“The events of 2020 caught us off guard, as China chose to contravene previously established agreements. Instead of fortifying the foundation for equilibrium, they destabilized it,” Jaishankar remarked.

Highlighting the importance of maintaining tranquility along the border, he stated, “Our objective is not to resolve the territorial dispute but to safeguard peace and stability along the border. For 45 years, from 1975 to 2020, the border remained peaceful, without any fatalities. We must introspect why this stability has been compromised.”