New Delhi, Aug 20: New Delhi on Wednesday dismissed Nepal’s objections to the resumption of border trade between India and China through the Lipulekh Pass, reiterating that Kathmandu’s territorial claims are “neither justified nor based on historical facts and evidence.”
The response came after Nepal’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs raised concerns over the reopening of trade through the Himalayan pass, which lies on the India–China border but is also claimed by Nepal.
“We have noted the comments of Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Nepal related to resumption of border trade between India and China through the Lipulekh Pass,” said Randhir Jaiswal, official spokesperson of the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA).
“Our position in this regard has been consistent and clear. Border trade between India and China through Lipulekh pass had commenced in 1954 and has been going on for decades. This trade had been disrupted in recent years due to Covid and other developments, and both sides have now agreed to resume it.
As regards territorial claims, our position remains that such claims are neither justified nor based on historical facts and evidence. Any unilateral artificial enlargement of territorial claims is untenable. India remains open to constructive interaction with Nepal on resolving agreed outstanding boundary issues through dialogue and diplomacy,” the MEA statement read.
Earlier, in its statement, Nepal’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs maintained, “The Government of Nepal has consistently urged the Government of India not to undertake activities such as road construction, expansion, or border trade in that area. The Government of Nepal has also conveyed to our friendly neighbor, China, that the territory belongs to Nepal.”
Media reported that Kathmandu further stressed its preference for diplomacy, noting that “in keeping with the spirit of close and friendly relations between Nepal and India, the Government of Nepal remains dedicated to resolving the boundary issue between the two countries on the basis of historical treaties, agreements, facts, maps, and evidence—through peaceful and diplomatic means:” reports media. Nepal has long claimed Lipulekh, Kalapani, and Limpiyadhura as part of its territory, though the area remain under India.
