Modi expresses concern to Xi on disputed border issues

NEW DELHI, India – India’s prime minister expressed concern to China’s visiting President Xi Jinping Thursday, September 18, about “incidents” on the two countries’ disputed border, as a stand-off between troops at the frontier overshadowed key talks.

“I expressed concern on the incidents on the border and said peace and tranquility on the border is the foundation for good relations,” said Prime Minister Narendra Modi after formal talks with the Chinese leader.

“(Xi) agreed that the boundary question must be resolved soon,” he added, as reports said hundreds of troops were facing off along the disputed border in the northern Ladakh region.

The two countries have long been embroiled in a bitter dispute over their border, and both sides regularly accuse soldiers of crossing over into the other’s territory.

Xi said China was committed to working with India to maintain “peace and tranquility” on their disputed border.

“We also have the sincerity to work with India to maintain peace and tranquility in the border areas before we are finally able to settle the border question,” Xi said in New Delhi.

“We are respectful of each other’s concerns,” Xi said.

An Indian army official who asked not to be named said there was “an ongoing situation” with Chinese soldiers in Ladakh, without giving further details.

Asked about the incident at a press briefing on Thursday, Chinese foreign ministry spokesman Hong Lei said it was now under control.

“China and India attach great importance to the incident that you mention. With immediate and effective communication, this has been effectively controlled and managed,” he said.

“China hopes to continue to work with the Indian side to safeguard peace and tranquility in the border area, and solve the border issue through consultation and dialogue.” – Rappler.com