MFA: China puts off arranging for Indian officially-organized pilgrims to Tibet

By:Ministry of Foreign Affairs
update:June 28,2017

June 28,2017--Q: According to the Foreign Ministry's statement yesterday, some Indian border guards crossed into the Chinese territory at the Sikkim section of the China-India boundary. Has the Indian side taken any steps to remove China's concern? What is the latest on this issue?

A: Yesterday, spokespersons of both the Defence Ministry and the Foreign Ministry of China have made statement on Indian border troops' trespass and provoking of troubles at the Sikkim section of the China-India boundary.

It is the Indian border troops who crossed into the Chinese territory and obstructed the Chinese border troops' normal activities in Doklam. We have taken proportionate measures in response. As for the question you asked, the Chinese side has lodged representations with the Indian side both in Beijing and Delhi, expressing our solemn position. I must say that China is sincere about developing friendly relations with India but is also resolute in safeguarding its own sovereignty and interests. We hope that the Indian side will work with us, take swift and correct measures to bring those who crossed into China back to the Indian side of the boundary.

Q: The Foreign Ministry statement said that the situation on the boundary was the reason why the arrangements for Indian pilgrims were being delayed. I just want to ask what about the remaining 300 pilgrims who are supposed to be undertaking this very important pilgrimage in the next few weeks, will China make arrangements for them or will they be denied?

A: I have stated China's solemn position and requirement concerning the Indian border troops' illegal entry into China. I will not repeat it.

As for the trip by Indian officially-organized pilgrims to Tibet via the Nathu-la mountain pass in the Sikkim section of the China-India boundary, I believe that the Indian public are fully aware of the enormous efforts made and the convenience provided by the Chinese government against all odds in the interests of China-India friendly relations. Recently, the Indian border troops crossed into the Chinese territory at the Sikkim section of the China-India boundary, and in response to that, we have taken necessary and emergency measures. In the meantime, we have to put off arranging for Indian officially-organized pilgrims' entry into Tibet via the Nathu-la pass out of security concerns. We have informed the Indian government through the diplomatic channel.

As for what is coming next, it is a matter of course that the Indian side should take necessary measures to alleviate the tension caused by their border troops' illegal entry, and create conditions for their pilgrims' travel to Tibet via the Nathu-la pass.