On the eve of boundary talks, Minister of State for External Affairs Shashi Tharoor [Images] on Thursday said China has no "locus standi" on a key irrigation project in Arunachal Pradesh which it is opposing as the state is integral part of India. "As far as India in concerned, we don't believe that China has any locus standi in this matter (irrigation project)," Tharoor told mediapersons while responding to queries on Beijing's [Images] opposition to the project.
China had tried to block an ADB loan for the project, claiming that the state was disputed.
The minister said that Arunachal Pradesh was an integral part of India and the country was committed to the welfare and development of the state.
"Arunachal Pradesh will not be neglected by this government," Tharoor said. The comments assumes significance as these came on the eve of talks between Special Representatives -- National Security Advisor M K Narayanan and Chinese State Councilor Dai Bingguo � in New Delhi [Images] to discuss the boundary issue.
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