New Delhi, Jan 3: India has expressed strong disapproval of China’s decision to create two new administrative counties in the Xinjiang region, citing violations of sovereignty and territorial integrity. The announcement by the People’s Government of Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region has added strain to the already complex relationship between the two nations, especially amid ongoing border negotiations.

China’s Decision Sparks Controversy

China’s state-run Xinhua News Agency reported that the Communist Party of China’s Central Committee and the State Council have approved the establishment of He’an County and Hekang County. These counties will operate under Hotan Prefecture, with administrative centers in Hongliu and Xeyidula townships, respectively.

Significantly, He’an County incorporates large portions of Aksai Chin—an area spanning approximately 38,000 square kilometers that India asserts as part of its Union Territory of Ladakh. India accuses China of illegally occupying this region and views the creation of new counties as an unacceptable escalation.

India’s Firm Response

Reacting to the development, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) issued a strong statement rejecting China’s unilateral action.

“We are aware of China’s announcement regarding the formation of two counties in Hotan Prefecture. Parts of these so-called counties fall within the Union Territory of Ladakh. India has never accepted China’s illegal occupation of its territory,” said MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal.

He emphasized that these actions neither change India’s sovereign claims nor legitimize China’s occupation. “We have conveyed a formal protest through diplomatic channels and reiterated that this move is completely unacceptable,” Jaiswal added.

Rising Tensions Amid Renewed Talks

The timing of this announcement is particularly significant as it comes just weeks after high-level talks aimed at easing border tensions resumed. On December 18, India’s National Security Advisor Ajit Doval met with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi in Beijing for the 23rd round of boundary discussions.

These negotiations, which had been stalled since 2020 due to violent clashes in eastern Ladakh, were seen as a crucial step toward rebuilding trust. However, China’s latest decision threatens to undermine these efforts and could deepen the mistrust between the two nations.

Longstanding Disputes

The border dispute between India and China remains a major roadblock in their relationship. Beyond Aksai Chin, India contests China’s claims over the Shaksgam Valley—5,180 square kilometers of land ceded by Pakistan to China in 1963.

India has consistently maintained that such actions by China violate its territorial sovereignty and international norms. The MEA’s response underscores India’s resolve to defend its claims and highlights the challenges of navigating diplomatic and security concerns with its neighbor.

As tensions escalate, the need for a sustainable resolution becomes even more urgent, not just for India and China but for regional stability as a whole.