India's trade rises 50% with China despite aggression: Arvind Kejriwal
New Delhi, January 25: India’s trade with China’s Beijing has increased by 50 per cent despite Chinese aggression. On Wednesday, Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal in an apparent swipe at the Central government Bharatiya Janata Party which sent a strong message to boycott China.
Kejriwal while addressing a function which was organised by Delhi government at Chhatrasal Stadium said that China is procuring more weapons to use against India with the very money it earns doing trade with us.
Also Read | Chandigarh can now boost of having North Indias largest floating solar project
"A leading newspaper today reported that China has occupied some of our land. This is worrisome for every Indian. Our soldiers are bravely facing China at the border and it is our duty to support them in this fight. It is our duty to boycott China and send out a strong message," Kejriwal said.
Aam Aadmi Party leader asked the BJP government what action it took against China's incursions into Indian territory and allegedly even occupying some of our land.
"On one hand China is occupying our land and on the other hand we are increasing our trade with China," he said, as he went on to list the items both countries traded in for billions of dollars.
"In 2020, we bought materials and products worth 65 billion dollars from China and in 2021 it increased to 95 billion dollars -- almost a 50 per cent increase. We are only making China richer and giving them more money. They are buying more weapons, recruiting more soldiers using our money to harm us," Kejriwal said.
Delhi CM suggested India should set up manufacturing units for items it imports from China and boycott Chinese goods.
"We are purchasing items like slippers, figurines, and mattresses from China. Why cannot we manufacture these in India?" he asked, saying that the move will only create jobs for youths.
Also Read | Republic Day 2023: Chandigarh Traffic Police announce curbs, diversions for January 26; check details
- With inputs from agencies
