Pranab downplays reports of China objecting to PM visit

Mumbai, Feb 8 (UNI) External Affairs Minister Pranab Mukherjee today downplayed reports of China objecting to the recent visit of Prime Minister Dr Manmohan Singh to Arunachal Pradesh.

''Arunachal is an integral part of India. We have regular representation in Parliament, elected by people of the state. The Prime Minister can visit any part of the country,'' Mr Mukherjee told reporters after inaugurating an art exhibition by Subrata Ghosh.

He said India was aware of China's position in respect of Arunachal Pradesh and even China was aware of India's stand.

When asked about the tirade launched by Raj Thackeray's Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) against North Indians in the state, Mr Mukherjee said the issue was being tackled by the local administration and he had nothing to say on the matter.

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