‘Border situation is stable’; China issues first statement on Tawang clash

ITANAGAR: China issued first statement after a clash between Indian and Chinese soldiers near the Yangtse River in Arunachal Pradesh's Tawang on the India-China border. China says that the situation at the border was ‘generally stable’ and demanded to have an open discussion to resolve the issues.

Clashes broke out near the Line of Actual Control (LAC) in Arunachal on December 9. China has not yet reacted to the incident. The news agency AFP reported China's first response. "As far as we understand, the China-India border situation is stable overall”, said China foreign ministry spokesman Wang Wenbin.

On 9th Dec 2022, PLA troops contacted the LAC in Tawang Sector of Arunachal Pradesh which was contested by Indian troops in a firm and resolute manner. This face-off led to minor injuries to a few personnel from both sides. Both sides immediately disengaged from the area: Sources pic.twitter.com/vQLXcM3xLS

— ANI (@ANI) December 12, 2022

This is the first direct clash between the troops of the two countries since the Galwan Valley clash on June 15, 2020. There were reports that many soldiers were injured in the attack. Defense sources said that more Chinese soldiers were injured than Indian soldiers. It is reported that 600 Chinese soldiers were present at the clash site. The injured Indian soldiers have been admitted to a hospital in Guwahati.

Rajnath Singh clarified in the Lok Sabha that, “There was no loss of life or any serious injury among our soldiers. Our soldiers have been trained to reply with necessary force if and when required.” Singh also lauded the efforts of the Indian armed forces, calling their action during the clash commendable. “The issue has been discussed with the Chinese government through diplomatic channels. The army is ready to face any challenge.”, Defense Minister said.