New Delhi, Jan 9 (UNI) India on Friday strongly rejected "Chinese infrastructure projects" in the Shaksgam Valley, asserting that the region is an integral part of its territory and condemning any attempts to alter the ground reality.

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) emphasised that projects under the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) passing through this area are "illegal" and invalid, reiterating India's consistent stance on "sovereignty and territorial integrity".

MEA Spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said, "Chinese infrastructure buildup via CPEC in the Shaksgam Valley, which is Indian territory. We have never recognised the so-called China-Pakistan boundary agreement of 1963. We have consistently maintained that the agreement is illegal and invalid."

He added, "We do not recognise the so-called China-Pakistan Economic Corridor either, which passes through Indian territory, currently under forcible and illegal occupation by Pakistan."

He stressed, "The entire union Territories of J&K and Ladakh are an integral and inalienable part of India."

This has been clearly conveyed to the" Chinese and Pakistani authorities" several times. "We have consistently protested with the Chinese side for its attempts to alter the ground reality in the Shaksgam Valley. We further reserve the right to take necessary measures to safeguard our interests," MEA said in a statement.

China's road-building capability and intentions in the Himalayas have drawn attention recently. MEA reaction comes after reports emerged that China has constructed a road across the Aghil Pass, at an altitude of 4,805 m, reaching the lower Shaksgam Valley.UNI AAB