The Department affirmed its recognition of Arunachal Pradesh as Indian territory and denounced any unilateral actions aimed at altering territorial boundaries along the Line of Actual Control (LAC). The statement comes amidst ongoing tensions between nuclear-armed neighbors India and China, who share a 3,000-km border, much of it poorly demarcated.

China's claim over Arunachal Pradesh, considering it as part of southern Tibet, is vehemently rejected by India, emphasizin the region's historical integration with the Indian state. The recent rebuke from the US adds to India's stance, reinforcing its sovereignty over the disputed territory.

The context of heightened tensions dates back to clashes in 2020, which resulted in casualties on both sides and prompted military build-ups along the border. As India and China navigate their complex relationship, the US-India partnership strengthens, serving as a strategic counterbalance to China's expanding influence in the Indo-Pacific region.

Amidst broader geopolitical tensions between the US and China, including trade disputes and concerns over human rights, the US's vocal support for India's territorial integrity underscores the evolving dynamics in the Asia-Pacific theater.