okesperson Randhir Jaiswal addresses a press conference, in New Delhi. | Photo Credit: PTI

India on Wednesday (August 20, 2025) rejected Nepal’s objection to resumption of India-China border trade through the Lipulekh Pass in Uttarakhand, stating that Kathmandu’s arguments are not based on “historical facts”.

“Our position in this regard has been consistent and clear. Border trade between India and China through Lipulekh Pass had commenced in 1954 and has been going on for decades. This trade had been disrupted in recent years due to COVID and other developments, and both sides have now agreed to resume it,” said Randhir Jaiswal, Official Spokesperson of the Ministry of External Affairs.