Kathmandu, Aug. 21 -- India on Wednesday responded to Nepal's objection over the decision to reopen border trade with China through the Lipulekh pass, rejecting Kathmandu's claim and reiterating that trade through the route existed for decades.

"We have noted the comments of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Nepal related to the resumption of border trade between India and China through the Lipulekh Pass," said Randhir Jaiswal, spokesperson for India's Ministry of External Affairs. "Our position in this regard has been consistent and clear. Border trade between India and China through Lipulekh pass commenced in 1954 and has been going on for decades."

The spokesperson said the trade had been disrupted in recent years due to Covid and o...