The People’s Liberation Army (PLA) of China on Tuesday claimed that the border clash in Arunachal Pradesh’s Tawang on December 9 was triggered by Indian troops “who illegally crossed the Line of Actual Control”.

In a statement, the PLA’s Western Theatre Command spokesperson said: “On December 9, border troops of Western Theatre Command organised a routine patrol on Chinese side of Line of Actual Control in Dongzhang area, eastern section of China-India boundary. (They) were impeded by Indian troops who illegally crossed LAC.

“The Chinese side responded in professional, standard and effective manner, controlled and stabilised situation on the ground. Two sides have disengaged. We urge the Indian side to strictly restrain its frontline troops and work with Chinese side to maintain peace and tranquillity in the border areas.”

However, the Chinese foreign ministry did not point an accusing finger at India, opting for a more nuanced routine statement that did not even make a mention of the clash.

At the daily briefing, spokesperson Wang Wenbin said: “The situation in China-India border areas is generally stable. The two sides have maintained smooth communication on boundary-related issues through diplomatic and military channels.

“Hope the Indian side will work with us in the same direction, earnestly implement the important consensus reached by leaders of the two countries, strictly observe relevant agreements and protocols signed by both sides and jointly maintain peace and tranquillity in the border areas.”

The Indian external affairs ministry had not commented on the clashes till late on Tuesday night, leaving the fire-fighting to the defence ministry.