US Calls for Recognition of Arunachal Pradesh as Indian Territory amid China's Claims
Amid China's objections to PM Modi's Arunachal Pradesh visit, the US reaffirms recognition of the state as Indian Territory, opposing unilateral territorial claims.
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Amid tensions between India and China over Prime Minister Narendra Modi's recent visit to Arunachal Pradesh, the United States has stepped in to support India's sovereignty over the region. A senior official from the Biden administration stated that the US recognises Arunachal Pradesh as part of Indian Territory and strongly opposes any unilateral actions by China along the Line of Actual Control. This statement emphasises the importance of recognising Arunachal Pradesh as an Indian Territory amidst geopolitical tensions in the region.
State Department spokesperson Vedant Patel emphasised this stance during a press conference, highlighting the US's firm opposition to any attempts by China to encroach upon or claim territory across the Line of Actual Control, whether through military or civilian means.
China, however, maintains its claim over the region, referring to it as Zangnan. Following PM Modi's visit to inaugurate the Sela Tunnel, Chinese officials expressed their dissatisfaction, stating that they never acknowledged Arunachal Pradesh as Indian Territory. They argue that the boundary dispute between China and India is still unresolved and criticise India's developmental activities in the region, highlighting ongoing tensions over Chinese territorial claims in Arunachal Pradesh.
In response, India firmly rejects China's claims, asserting that Arunachal Pradesh is an integral part of the country. Indian officials point out that visits by Indian leaders to Arunachal Pradesh are routine and do not warrant objections from China. They reiterate that Arunachal Pradesh has always been and will continue to be an integral and inseparable part of India. This issue is also being viewed within the broader context of US-China relations over Arunachal Pradesh.
Despite China's objections, India maintains its stance, emphasising its consistent position on the matter with the Chinese side. The issue is further complicated by the US stance on Arunachal Pradesh, which supports India's sovereignty over the region.
Overall, the involvement of the United States adds another layer to the complex dynamics between India and China, highlighting the international significance of the dispute over Arunachal Pradesh.
