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China-India border dispute
AsiaSouth Asia

Modi says India will fight foreign threats in Independence Day speech that sends warning to China

PM’s remarks came as New Delhi’s dispute with Beijing over a strategically key Himalayan plateau enters its second month on Wednesday, with hundreds of soldiers reported to be facing off against each other

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Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi addresses the nation on the country's Independence Day. Photo: AP
Agence France-Presse
India can defend itself from anyone who seeks “to act against our country”, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said in an Independence Day speech Tuesday amid a tense stand-off with Beijing over a Himalayan plateau.

“Security is our top priority,” Modi said in a speech before thousands at the landmark Red Fort in New Delhi as the country marked the 70th anniversary of the end of British colonial rule.

“Be it the sea or the borders, cyber or space - in all spheres, India is capable and we are strong enough to overcome those who try to act against our country,” the Hindu nationalist leader declared.

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His remarks came as New Delhi’s dispute with Beijing over a strategically key Himalayan plateau enters its second month on Wednesday, with hundreds of soldiers reported to be facing off against each other.
Indian army personnel take photos on their mobile phones during Independence Day celebrations in Bangalore. Photo: EPA
Indian army personnel take photos on their mobile phones during Independence Day celebrations in Bangalore. Photo: EPA
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The giant neighbours share a long history of mistrust and went to war in 1962 over the Indian state of Arunachal Pradesh, and are still embroiled in a dispute over the territory.

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