Modi Puts China On Notice

Says the era of expansionism is over and the age of development has begun; praises troops for showing their ‘fire and fury’; foreign secretary briefs five countries on the LAC situation

- Mayank Singh & Pushkar Banakar

Sending out a strong signal to China, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday said the days of expansionism were over and that India’s commitment to peace should not be interpreted by any country as a sign of weakness.

“The era of expansionism has come to an end. This is the era of development. History has proved that expansionist forces have either lost or were forced to turn back,” he said while addressing troops during a surprise visit to Nimu in Ladakh.

Paying tribute to the courage and devotion of Indian soldiers, Modi said “the enemies of India have seen the fire and fury of our forces.” The world had taken note of India’sstrength and the exemplary bravery of the armed forces, the Prime Minister said.

Although he did not mention China even once in his address, it was clear he was referring to India’s northern neighbour. Reacting to Modi’s speech, the Chinese embassy here said it was wrong to view China as expansionist and to fabricate its disputes with its neighbours.