The United States Senate Foreign Relations Committee (SFRC) has recently approved a resolution that reaffirms Arunachal Pradesh’s status as an integral part of India. This bipartisan resolution paves the way for its introduction on the Senate floor and potential adoption by the full chamber. The resolution, introduced by Senators Jeff Merkley of Oregon and Bill Haggerty of Tennessee, with co-sponsorship from Senators John Cornyn of Texas, Tim Kaine of Virginia, and Chris Van Hollen of Maryland, carries significant weight in the international arena.
The resolution explicitly reaffirms the United States’ recognition of the McMahon Line as the international boundary between the People’s Republic of China (PRC) and the Indian state of Arunachal Pradesh. By doing so, it strongly pushes back against Chinese claims that substantial portions of Arunachal Pradesh belong to the PRC. This move is seen as a response to the PRC’s increasingly aggressive and expansionist policies, which have raised concerns among the international community.
Senator Merkley, who serves as the Co-Chair of the Congressional Executive Commission on China, emphasizes that the passage of this resolution affirms the United States’ view of Arunachal Pradesh as part of the Republic of India, firmly rejecting the PRC’s claims. Moreover, it highlights the commitment of the United States to enhance support and assistance to the region, alongside like-minded international partners.
China’s Persistent Claims and India’s Response
China refers to Arunachal Pradesh as Zangnan, claiming it as South Tibet. However, India’s External Affairs Ministry categorically rejects this claim, asserting that Arunachal Pradesh is an inseparable part of India. China regularly protests when top Indian leaders and officials visit Arunachal Pradesh to reaffirm India’s sovereignty over the region. It is worth noting that successive US administrations since 1962 have consistently recognized Arunachal Pradesh as part of India, strengthening the longstanding partnership between the two countries.
In the midst of the lingering eastern Ladakh border standoff that began in May 2020, China attempted to rename places in Arunachal Pradesh. However, the White House swiftly and firmly opposed these unilateral attempts to advance territorial claims through renaming localities. White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre reiterated the United States’ recognition of Arunachal Pradesh as an integral part of India and expressed strong opposition to any actions that challenge this territorial status.
The resolution passed by the United States Senate Foreign Relations Committee carries significant implications for the region. Its bipartisan support underscores the commitment of the United States to stand with India and reinforce the relationship between the two nations. By recognizing Arunachal Pradesh as part of India, the United States sends a clear message to China and other nations that it stands firmly in support of India’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.
The United States Senate Foreign Relations Committee’s approval of the resolution reaffirming Arunachal Pradesh’s status as an integral part of India is a significant development that strengthens the partnership between the two nations. This resolution not only reinforces the United States’ recognition of Arunachal Pradesh but also showcases its commitment to deepen support and assistance to the region. It is a clear message to China and the international community that the United States stands alongside India and like-minded partners, supporting India’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.