China objects to President Ram Nath Kovind’s visit to Arunachal Pradesh

China on Monday strongly criticised President Ram Nath Kovind’s visit to Arunachal Pradesh saying that the Sino-Indian relations is going through ‘crucial moments’ and New Delhi should refrain from complicating issues.

Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson in a press briefing said, Lu Kang added, “China firmly opposes the Indian leader’s activities in the relevant region.  Relations between China and India are at a crucial moment. We hope India could work in the same direction and maintain general picture of bilateral ties and refrain from complicating border issue.”

He added that the Chinese government has never acknowledged Arunachal Pradesh. The Chinese finance ministry spokesperson further said, “The two countries are in the process of settling border dispute through negotiation and consultation. Pending final settlement all parties should work for peace and tranquillity.”

He also said India should “work to create favourable conditions for border negotiations and for the sound and stable development of bilateral ties”.

China claims Arunachal Pradesh as part of south Tibet and routinely criticises India if its leaders visit the state.

The country’s official news agency Xinhua describes Arunachal Pradesh as being “illegally” established in areas of the Tibet Autonomous Region.

Kovind during his four day tour of the northeast had said, “Northeast is crown of the country and Arunachal Pradesh is the jewel in the crown.”