US Slams China, Backs India Over Arunachal Pradesh

Slamming China's claim over Arunachal Pradesh, United States Department Principal Deputy Spokesperson Vedant Patel made it clear that Arunachal Pradesh is an Indian territory and the US strongly opposes any unilateral attempts to breach the security of any country.

"The United States recognises Arunachal Pradesh as Indian territory and we strongly oppose any unilateral attempts to advance territorial claims by incursions or encroachments, military or civilian, across the Line of Actual Control," said Vedant Patel.

The statement from the United States representative came in response to Chinese defence ministry spokesperson Colonel Zhang Xiaogang's hoax claims that Beijing "never acknowledges and firmly opposes" the "so-called Arunachal Pradesh illegally established by India".

China's statement came after Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited Arunachal Pradesh. On the other hand, China is claiming the state to be a part of South Tibet and their territory and has also reportedly named the region Zangnan.

However, the hoax claims by China would not change the reality that Arunachal Pradesh is India's integral part and one of the most important part of the northeastern states.

During his visit to Arunachal Pradesh, on March 9, Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced many big projects and dedicated the Sela Tunnel built at an altitude of 13,000 feet to the people of the state. The tunnel will provide all-weather connectivity to strategically located Tawang and will ensure easy movement of troops along the border region.