China plays down India's move to establish mountain strike corps in north east

China has played down India's decision to establsih a mountain strike corps in the eastern part of the country to counter possible offensive defense moves by Beijing.

In a measured statement, the Chinese Foreign Ministry said it will continue to look for ways to join hands with India to maintain peace and stability on the border that separates the two countries.

Maintaining that the overall situation on its border with India is peaceful, Beijing further said that both governments have inked several agreements in the recent past to ensure this state of bilateral political and military tranquility.

While online forums in China are actively discussing news of the formation of an Indian military strike corps in the east and north-east of the country,state-run papers and tabloids are silent on the development.

Analysts are of the view that China still has better infrastructure and advanatge terrain-wise in comparison to India, if a situation arises where security forces are to be mobilised for combat.

Special Representatives of both governments-Shivshankar Menon and Yang Jiechi-recently took part in the 16th round of talks to iron out differences on border issues. The two sides have agreed to have better communication through more border personnel meetings.

Foreign and defence ministry officials are also due to meet next week to discuss further steps in boundary consultations and coordination.