Doklam can be resolved through bilateral talks, says EAM Sushma Swaraj

India's external affairs minister Sushma Swaraj on Thursday said that war is not a solution to the current standoff between Indian and Chinese troops in the Doklam plateau. The diplomatic channels are working with China.

"China's action in Doklam is of concern to us. The Chinese is selectively quotes PM Jawaharlal Nehru's letter. Peace and tranquillity with China is important. Doklam can be resolved through bilateral talks," she said in the Rajya Sabha replying to a discussion on "India's foreign policy and engagement with strategic partners" during which members voiced concern over the stand-off and raised questions over India's policy.

She also slammed the Congress for questioning why India had boycotted an international conference called by China over 'One Belt, One Road' (OBOR). "Do you know through where the OBOR passes? And you are asking these questions? It is a matter of national sentiment (for India). You are the main Opposition party, You should speak with responsibility," she said, referring to the project which China proposes to build through Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. "PM Modi is now shaping global agendas. The PM has let our differences not turn into disputes. How can the Congress ask us to not oppose the CPEC? The previous government's foreign policy was 'PMO' driven," said Swaraj in Rajya Sabha.

"We are talking with China on everything, not just Doklam. China has big investments in India. Also, you have to understand that both Russia and the US are with us," said Swaraj.

She also read out a statement giving details and explaining India's position on the Dokalam stand-off which has been going on for over a month.

Speaking on climate change, Swaraj said,"Our stance remains the same on climate change. Despite US President Donald Trump's allegations on India taking bribes, we stood against it. PM Modi has the guts to stand against Donald Trump and the US.''

She further said that PoK is an integral part of India. The entire Kashmir is ours.

On relations with Pakistan, Swaraj said,''We tried to extend the hand of friendship to Pakistan but after Burhan Wani's death the relationship has changed. Terror and talks cannot go hand-in-hand."

On relations with Israel said that bonhomie with Israel doesn't mean India will let down Palestine cause. "There was once a time when India had Russia as a friend, but not the US. We can today count both Moscow and Washington as our allies. Furthermore, we are trying to be closer with Israel, but our solidarity with Palestine is as strong as ever. I spoke to Mahmoud Abbas and even he was happy with our efforts," said Sushma Swaraj, while addressing the Rajya Sabha.

"People thought India doesn't care about the Arab world. But look how things have turned out. The Arab countries consider India to be their closest ally," Union external affairs minister Sushma Swaraj told Parliament.

"Our stance remains the same on climate change. Despite US President Donald Trump's allegations on India taking bribes, we stood against it. PM Modi has the guts to stand against Donald Trump and the US," said Swaraj.

Swaraj began her speech praising Modi government's outreach to its neighbours and friends. She said that Modi has earned respect for the country. He has brought glory to India. ''We helped countries like Maldives, Sri Lanka, Nepal when in need. ''We were first to help Nepal during earthquake,'' she said.

On relation with Bhutan, Swaraj said,''Bhutan is our dearest friend. Statements made by some MPs contradict facts. The Nation which seeks our help is our friend. The world sees India differently now. We have improved ties with neighbours. Bhutan is our dearest friend.''

Sushma Swaraj slammed Rahul Gandhi's meet with the Chinese envoy while India is in a standoff with the PLA at the Doklam plateau. "He should have consulted with the Prime Minister first. The opposition should have taken the government's view before meeting the Chinese," said Swaraj. She further said,''Rahul should have consulted PM Modi before meeting Chinese envoy. Opposition should have taken Govt's view before meet.''

The Opposition on Thursday cornered the government in Parliament on the standoff with China over the Doklam issue. Anand Sharma of the Congress sought a reply from Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

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