'China Abides By The Five Principles Of Peaceful Coexistence'

In response to a question on media reports about an article by a Chinese analyst, the Official Spokesperson said:

“We have seen media reports. India and China have strategic and cooperative partnership. There is multi-sectoral engagement between the two countries and the pace of exchanges has gained momentum in recent years. Both sides have agreed to continue this momentum, while seeking to resolve outstanding issues, including the boundary question through peaceful dialogue and consultations, and with mutual sensitivity to each other’s concerns.

The Chinese side has conveyed to us that in approaching India China relations, China abides by the Five Principles of Peaceful Coexistence. One of these principles stresses respect for territorial integrity and sovereignty.

The article in question appears to be an expression of individual opinion and does not accord with the officially stated position of China on India China relations conveyed to us on several occasions, including at the highest level, most recently by the State Councillor Dai Bingguo during his visit to India last week.

We continue to maintain that opinions and assessment on the state of India-China relations should be expressed after careful judgement based on the long-term interests of building a stable relationship between the two countries”.