The Trump Administration on Friday reiterated that India and China should engage in dialogue to “reduce tension.” The United States said it is closely and carefully following the border standoff between the two countries.
“This is a situation that we are following closely and carefully. I’d have to refer you to the governments of India and China for more information on that,” State Department Spokesman Heather Nauert.
She also informed that the Indians and Chinese are talking about those issues. “They’re going to talk to one another,” she said. National Security Adviser Ajit K Doval will visit Beijing to attend the BRICS meeting on July 27 and 28. “We would encourage them to engage in direct dialogue aimed at reducing tensions,” Nauert said.
India on Thursday said it is prepared for talks with China after they pull back their armies to end the tense standoff in the Sikkim sector. It stresses the need for a “peaceful resolution” of border issues. However, China said diplomatic channels with India remained “unimpeded” to discuss the military standoff. It reiterated that the removal of the Indian troops from Doklam area is a “precondition” for any meaningful dialogue.
Chinese and Indian soldiers have been locked in a face- off in Dokalam for over a month. It started after Indian troops stopped the Chinese army from building a road in the borderline area. China claimed it was constructing the road within its territory. It demanded immediate pull-out of the Indian troops.
