New Delhi (Sputnik) — Despite blaming India for undermining its territorial sovereignty, Beijing softened its stance on the issue around the Kailash mountain and has agreed to open an alternate route. Earlier, it canceled the yatra through the Nathu La route in view of the ongoing stand-off between the two countries.
"We have strong evidence to prove that Doklam belongs to China. The activities conducted in Doklam are within China's sovereignty. It is the Indian side that trespassed and changed the status quo in the name of security concern. The Indian side has trespassed into another country's territory. No matter what activities it conducts there, it will not be acceptable to any sovereign state. The Indian border troops must pull back its border troops unconditionally and immediately. This is the pre-condition for any meaningful dialogue between China and India," the Chinese political counselor added.
"China consistently respects the Indian people's religious sentiments and attaches importance to Indian yatra (pilgrimage) to Kailash and Mansarovar in Xizang. Up to now, the official yatra through Lipuleku Pass and non-official yatra through Lhasa Purang are still on the rails. We are willing to discuss the possibility of alternative arrangements through other routes for Indian official yatris who had planned to visit Kailash and Mansarovar via Nathula Pass," Chinese Embassy Counsellor Xie Lian said.
