China says channel of communication with India ‘unimpeded’

By Gaurav Sharma

Beijing. June 30 (IANS) China on Friday said the channel of communication with India was "unimpeded" and rejected Bhutan's claim over Donglong where Indian and Chinese troops are locked in a face-off.

Bejing again alleged that Indian troops trespassed into China's territory and asked New Delhi to withdraw its troops.

Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lu Kang said Indian troops crossed the border on June 18. India has denied the allegation.

"Diplomatic channels are unimpeded between India and China for talks on the stand-off in Sikkim," Lu said.

He also rejected Bhutan's claims over Donglong, calling it Chinese territory.

"The area where Chinese side undertakes road construction totally belongs to the Chinese territory."

Lu cited historical practices in Donglong to drive his point home.

"We are exercising complete and comprehensive administration over the Doklam (Donglong) region and our border troops and residents around the border are herding their cattle along this," Lu said.

"This evidence is recognised by the Bhutan side," Lu added.

"From historical evidence, we can see that Doklam has been a traditional pasture for the Tibetan residents and we have exercised good administration over the area.

"Before the 1960s, if Bhutan residents around the border wanted to put their cattle they had to get the approval from China," Lu said citing Chinese history.

Following the face-off, China has suspended the pilgrimage to Kailash Mansarovar in Tibet where Indians travel via Nathu La Pass, which is shut now.