New Delhi: Defence Minister AK Antony on Monday expressed surprise over the Chinese objection to his visit to Arunachal Pradesh, saying the state is an integral part of India.
"I was surprised to read the Chinese reaction. It is very sad and highly objectionable. Arunachal Pradesh is an integral part of India. As the Defence Minister of India it is my duty to ensure that all the borders of India are safe," he said.
"Statements by China are objectionable. Arunachal Pradesh is a part of India like J&K. Northeast and any other state of India. As Defence Minister I can visit anywhere within my country," he added.
External Affairs Minister SM Krishna said "India will not tolerate external interference of China into the Indian territorial affairs".
Krishna also reminded China that Arunachal Pradesh is a "part and parcel" of India.
"All seven states in North Eastern parts of India are part and parcel of India and China has no rights to make adverse remarks on Antony's visit to Arunachal Pradesh," he told reporters.
India has taken the Chinese remarks "seriously" and it would take up the issue with Beijing at an appropriate forum, he added.
Krishna also said it was not the first visit to the northeastern state by Antony.
Reacting sharply to Antony's visit to Arunachal Pradesh for its statehood celebrations, China said on Sunday that India should refrain from taking any action that could 'complicate' the border issue.
The Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Hong Lei has "asked India to work with China to maintain peace and stability in border areas", a report said.
Saying that China advocates seeking a fair and rational solution through equal and friendly negotiations, Hong said, Bejing's stance on Sino-Indian border issues, including disputes regarding the eastern section, has been consistent and clear-cut.
"He also called on India to refrain from taking any action that could complicate the issue", the news agency report said.
(With additional inputs from PTI)
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