China reacts to PM Modi's Ladakh visit, says 'avoid actions that may escalate tension'

Hours after Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited Ladakh amidst the ongoing stand-off between the Indian Army and China's PLA (People's Liberation Army), Beijing said negotiations are on between the two countries and no party should engage in any activity that could escalate the matter.

Days after a violent face-off between Indian and Chinese troops in East Ladakh, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday reached Leh where he interacted with personnel of the Army, Air Force and ITBP. Modi, accompanied by Chief of Defence Staff Gen Bipin Rawat, reached Leh around 9.30 am.

India & China are in communication and negotiations on lowering the temperatures through military & diplomatic channels. No party should engage in any action that may escalate the situation at this point:Zhao Lijian, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson on PM Modi's Ladakh visit pic.twitter.com/ZYGjGGIdt9

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— ANI (@ANI) July 3, 2020

Also Read | PM Modi in Ladakh: Here are the key highlights of his speech

Paying tributes to the 20 Army men killed in a violent face-off with Chinese troops in east Ladakh, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday said the bravery of the soldiers has sent a message about the strength of India.

Addressing Army, Air Force and ITBP personnel during his surprise visit to Ladakh, he said India's resolve for 'Atmanirbhar Bharat' (self-reliant India) becomes stronger because their strong resolve. He told the personnel that their will power is as strong and firm as the Himalayas and the whole country is proud of them.

(With agency inputs)