India Expresses Disquiet to China Over Brahmaputra Dam Project

India’s External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar raised concerns with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi regarding the construction of a mega dam by China on the Brahmaputra River. The meeting addressed the potential impact on lower riparian states. The Chinese Foreign Minister’s visit was at the invitation of National Security Adviser Ajit Doval. The talks included de-escalation, delimitation, boundary matters, and discussions on regional and international issues. India highlighted its concern regarding terrorism, and the Chinese Foreign Minister concurred. India emphasized its concerns regarding the mega dam project in the lower reaches of the Yarlung Tsangpo (Brahmaputra) river, underlining the importance of transparency. India reiterated its position on Taiwan, focusing on existing relations. The Indian government has taken note of China’s announced mega dam project and is actively monitoring developments related to the Brahmaputra River. The government is taking all necessary measures to protect the interests of Indian citizens residing in downstream areas. Various issues regarding trans-border rivers are discussed through the Expert Level Mechanism. India consistently conveys its views and concerns to Chinese authorities and has urged them to ensure that the interests of downstream states are not harmed. The issue was previously addressed during a meeting in Beijing where both nations agreed to hold an early meeting of the Expert Level Mechanism.