Beijing, 25 August 2022 (TDI): A Spokesperson for the Ministry of National Defense (MND) of China, Senior Colonel Tan Kefei stated that “We firmly oppose any third party to meddle in the China-India border issue in any form,” during a regular press conference.

The response by Senior Colonel Tan Kefei was in answer to a question posed during the briefing regarding the military drills between the US and India currently taking place close to the Chinese borders.

The Spokesperson made it very clear that China has consistently emphasized that military cooperation between relevant nations, particularly during drills and training operations, should not be directed at any outside party.

However, they should work to uphold regional peace and stability. Likewise, the border dispute between China and India is a problem between the two nations he enunciated.

In this regard, both China and India have agreed to manage the problem appropriately through bilateral discussions and have maintained efficient contact at all levels.

Tan went on to underscore that neither party is permitted to conduct military exercises against the other in regions close to the Line of Actual Control in light of the pertinent agreements that China and India signed in 1993 and 1996.

Finally, the spokesperson urged the Indian side to honor its commitment. He reiterated that “It is hoped that the Indian side will strictly abide by the important consensus reached by the leaders of the two countries and the relevant agreements, uphold its commitment to resolving border issues through bilateral channels, and maintain peace and tranquility in the border area with practical actions.”