China Reaffirms Claim Over Shaksgam Valley After India’s Objections
China has once again asserted its territorial claim over the Shaksgam Valley, dismissing objections from India and defending its infrastructure projects in the region. Chinese officials said construction activities there are justified because Beijing considers the area part of its sovereign territory.
Dispute Over Territory
India strongly rejects China’s claim, stating that the 1963 boundary agreement between China and Pakistan, under which Pakistan ceded the Shaksgam Valley to China, is illegal and invalid. New Delhi maintains that the Shaksgam Valley is part of the Union Territories of Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh and reserves the right to protect its interests.
The disagreement reflects long-standing tensions between India and China over border regions, despite both sides maintaining communications and agreements on other sectors of their frontier.
Reactions in India
Indian officials reiterated that infrastructure development by China in the Shaksgam Valley is unacceptable and called on Beijing to respect India’s stance on territorial integrity. The region remains a sensitive point in bilateral relations, with both countries holding firm to their respective positions.
