In a recent statement, a senior official from the Biden administration affirmed that the United States recognizes Arunachal Pradesh as Indian territory and vehemently opposes any unilateral actions by China to assert its territorial claims beyond the Line of Actual Control. This declaration comes in response to renewed assertions by the Chinese military regarding their claim over Arunachal Pradesh, following Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to the region.

Chinese Defence Ministry spokesman Senior Colonel Zhang Xiaogang reiterated China’s stance, stating that the southern part of Xizang (Tibet) belongs to China and rejecting the existence of Arunachal Pradesh as a legitimate entity established by India. China consistently objects to Indian leaders’ visits to the region and has designated it as “Zangnan.”

Prime Minister Modi recently inaugurated the Sela Tunnel in Arunachal Pradesh, facilitating all-weather connectivity to strategically important areas like Tawang and enhancing troop movement along the frontier.

The U.S. State Department, represented by Principal Deputy Spokesperson Vedant Patel, emphasized its recognition of Arunachal Pradesh as Indian territory and condemned any unilateral attempts to alter territorial boundaries.

India has consistently rebuffed China’s claims over Arunachal Pradesh, affirming its integral status within India. The Ministry of External Affairs rejected China’s recent assertions as baseless and reiterated Arunachal Pradesh’s unequivocal status as an integral part of India.