China’s reaction comes after Modi’s surprise visit to Ladakh
Taking exception to Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s remarks on Friday on “expansionism” in an obvious reference to intrusions into Ladakh from across the Line of Actual Control (LAC), China responded by saying it is “groundless” to view Beijing as “expansionist”.
“China has demarcated boundary with 12 of its 14 neighboring countries through peaceful negotiations, turning land borders into bonds of friendly cooperation. It’s groundless to view China as “expansionist”, exaggerate and fabricate its disputes with neighbours,” said Ji Rong, spokesperson of the Chinese Embassy in India.
This response came shortly after Modi in a surprise visit to Ladakh without referring to China said the era of “expansionism” is over.
In Beijing, the Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Zhao Lijian said in reaction to the Prime Minister’s visit to Ladakh that “China and India are in communication with each other through military and diplomatic channels. Neither side should make any move that may complicate the border situation.”
Meanwhile, China said “artificial blocks” to bilateral cooperation would harm India’s interests and that the two countries should work together to uphold peace in their border region. Beijing will take necessary measures to uphold the rights of Chinese businesses in India, a spokesman for the Foreign Ministry in Beijing told a news briefing.
His comments came after India banned 59 apps, including TikTok, citing a threat a national security and as Modi visited Ladakh.
In his monthly radio address Mann ki Baat , the Prime Minister had said, “Those who eyed Indian territory in Ladakh have received a befitting response.”
China has warned that India’s ban on China-linked apps amounts to a violation of WTO rules.