India rebuffed the Chinese defense ministry’s assertions regarding Arunachal Pradesh, stating that restating unfounded contentions does not lend credence to such assertions.
The response from India’s Ministry of External Affairs ensued subsequent to Colonel Zhang Xiaogang, spokesperson for the Chinese Defence Ministry, asserting that Zangnan is an integral part of China, denouncing India’s unauthorized establishment of “Arunachal Pradesh.”
The spokesperson for the Chinese defense ministry contended that India’s activities undermine efforts by both parties to alleviate border tensions, thus hindering the preservation of peace and tranquility in border regions. “We urge India to desist from actions that may exacerbate border disputes and earnestly endeavor to maintain peace and stability in border areas. The Chinese military remains exceedingly vigilant and will steadfastly safeguard national sovereignty and territorial integrity,” added Colonel Zhang Xiaogang.
Responding to queries from the media regarding remarks made by the Chinese Defence Ministry’s spokesperson, MEA Spokesperson, Randhir Jaiswal, articulated on Tuesday, “We have taken note of the assertions made by the Chinese Defence Ministry’s spokesperson, propagating baseless contentions concerning the territory of the Indian State of Arunachal Pradesh.”
“Reiterating unfounded arguments in this context does not confer any legitimacy to such assertions. Arunachal Pradesh has been, is, and will always be an integral and inseparable part of India. Its populace will persist in benefiting from our developmental initiatives and infrastructure endeavors,” stated Jaiswal.
Previously, the Chinese foreign ministry lodged a diplomatic protest against India following Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Arunachal Pradesh, during which he inaugurated the strategically significant Sela tunnel. China, asserting Arunachal Pradesh as South Tibet, opined that India’s actions would only exacerbate the boundary issue.
“China has never acknowledged the so-called Arunachal Pradesh, illegitimately established by India, and firmly opposes it,” declared Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Wang Wenbin during a media briefing.
Wenbin underscored that India lacks the authority to unilaterally develop the Zangnan region in China, which China has designated as Arunachal Pradesh.
