China lodges diplomatic protest with India over PM Modi’s visit to Arunachal Pradesh

Prime Minister Modi visited Arunachal Pradesh on Saturday

Beijing:

China said on Monday it lodged a diplomatic protest with India over Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Arunachal Pradesh last week and reiterated its claim to the region, saying India’s move “will only complicate unresolved border issues”.

India dismissed China’s concerns and said it had been informed of its position on multiple occasions.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday paid tribute to the nation by constructing the Sierra Tunnel at an altitude of 13,000 feet in Arunachal Pradesh, which will provide all-weather connectivity to the strategic Tawang and is expected to ensure better access of troops along the border areas action.

Returning to Arunachal Pradesh is always special. Stunning landscapes, vibrant culture and welcoming people never fail to inspire. The welcome in Ita Nagar was unforgettable! pic.twitter.com/WbKSlNexGj

— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) March 9, 2024

The Rs 825-crore tunnel, built on the road connecting Assam’s Tezpur and Arunachal Pradesh’s West Kamund district, is touted as the world’s highest two-lane road tunnel.

According to military officials, the Sera Tunnel will facilitate better transportation of troops and weapons and equipment to various forward locations along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) with China.

India has repeatedly rejected China’s territorial claims over Arunachal Pradesh, insisting that the state is an integral part of India. New Delhi also dismissed Beijing’s move to designate an “invented” name for the region, saying it did not change reality.

On Monday, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Wang Wenbin was asked by state media at a regular press conference about Prime Minister Modi’s visit to Arunachal Pradesh. He said that China expressed strong dissatisfaction and firm opposition to the Indian leader’s visit to the eastern section of the China-India border. . …We have made solemn representations to the Indian side. ”

External Affairs Ministry spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal refuted the remarks and said there was no justification for opposing the Indian leader’s visit.

“We do not accept China’s remarks about the Prime Minister’s visit to Arunachal Pradesh. Indian leaders visit Arunachal Pradesh from time to time like they visit other states in India. Opposition to such visits or development projects in India is untenable .” Moreover, this does not change the reality that Arunachal Pradesh was, is and will always be an integral part of India. China has stated this consistent position many times. “.