ARUNACHAL PRADESH: CM PEMA KHANDU PLAYS DOWN POSSIBLE THREAT FROM CHINA

Responding to the question over his government’s stance and plan for the possible threat from Chinese over the news of China doing large-scale mining operations in Lhunze county adjacent to Arunachal Pradesh, Chief Minister Pema Khandu categorically played down the possible threat.

While replying to the question of media persons on the mining issue of China close to Arunachal Pradesh at Pasighat Airport today, Khandu said that, he has taken note of the news and making close observation of the situation. “The said location as per the report of Hong Kong-based South China Morning Post is far away from Arunachal border and there are no activities of mining near the border of Arunachal Pradesh. The said location of mining, Lhunze county is far away from Arunachal border and their activities at their side has no threat for us”, said Khandu.

As per South China Morning Post reports, China has begun large-scale mining operations on its side of the border with Arunachal Pradesh where a huge trove of gold, silver and other precious minerals valued at about US 60 billion has been found. And the media report projects the mining operations as part of China's move to take over Arunachal Pradesh by saying that people familiar with the project say the mines are part of an ambitious plan by Beijing to reclaim South Tibet.

However, Khandu made it clear that, Arunachal Pradesh has been a part and parcel of India and Chinese claim over Arunachal as south Tibet is nothing but a mere political gimmick/agenda.