Taking strong objection to Dalai Lama’s proposed visit to Arunachal Pradesh early next year, China today warned that his visit will only damage bilateral ties between Beijing and New Delhi.
Responding to a question on Dalai Lama’s scheduled visit, Chinese foreign ministry spokesman Lu Kang said, “The invitation to the Dalai Lama for activity in the disputed areas between China and India will only damage peace stability of the border areas as well as the bilateral relationship between China and India."
The invitation to Dalai Lama has been sent by Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu.
The visit is understood to have been cleared by the Centre.
China claims Arunachal Pradesh to be a part of southern Tibet and routinely protests visits by Indian leaders, foreign officials as well as the Dalai Lama to the area.
Last week, Beijing reacted strongly to American envoy Richard Verma's October 22 tour to Tawang, saying the Ambassador visited a "disputed region".
The Dalai Lama is likely to visit Tawang, the seat of a Buddhist monastery.
(With PTI inputs)
