India’s objective is to resolve Doklam standoff through diplomacy: MEA

The standoff began on June 16 after Chinese troops began constructing a road near the tri-junction with Bhutan, which India says was a unilateral action by Beijing to change the status quo in the area

The Government of India on Friday reiterated that it is open for diplomatic channels to find a mutually acceptable solution to the ongoing Doklam standoff with China at the tri-junction with Bhutan.

Gopal Baglay, Spokesperson of Ministry of External Affairs, said: ''India will continue to engage with the Chinese side through diplomatic channels to find a mutually acceptable solution. The government remains prepared, it is the country's responsibility to ensure the security of its citizen and its territory.''

India's approach to achieving the objective of peace and tranquility through diplomacy comes after China said that it has shown "utmost goodwill" over the prolonged military standoff with India in the Sikkim sector but warned that its "restraint" has a "bottom line".

The standoff began on June 16 after Chinese troops began constructing a road near the tri-junction with Bhutan, which India says was a unilateral action by Beijing to change the status quo in the area.

External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj last month made clear India's position on the over-a-month-long standoff in the Doklam area, saying both sides should first pull back their troops for any talks to take place, favoring a peaceful resolution.

New Delhi fears the construction of the road would allow China to cut off India's access to its northeastern states.

(With agency inputs)