Be cautious: China warns Modi on launch of India's longest bridge in Assam

China asked India to exercise "restraint" over building infrastructure in Arunachal Pradesh

China asked India on Monday to be “cautious” and exercise “restraint” over building infrastructure in Arunachal Pradesh, days after Prime Narendra Modi launched the country’s longest bridge linking Assam with the state claimed by Beijing.

“We hope India adopts a cautious and restrained attitude on the issue before the final settlement of the border issue with China to jointly control disputes, safeguard peace and tranquillity in the border areas,” the Chinese foreign ministry said.

“China’s position on the eastern section of the Sino-Indian border areas is consistent and clear,” a statement in Chinese said.

Modi last week opened the country’s longest bridge over Brahmaputra river that connects Assam’s easternmost region with Arunachal Pradesh, claimed and dubbed by China as South Tibet.

“China and India should resolve territorial disputes through negotiations and consultations between the two countries,” the foreign ministry said.

China and India have a dragging border dispute.

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The 9.2km Dhola-Sadiya bridge will cut the distance and travel time between Assam and Arunachal Pradesh by 165km and five hours.

Analysts say the bridge will ensure swift movement of Indian troops in Arunachal Pradesh, which, therefore, will bolster India’s defence along the China border.

China and India fought a brief war in 1962 when the Chinese entered Arunachal Pradesh and unilaterally declared a ceasefire after withdrawing to the McMahon Line.(read more)