Now China says, "That sanctuary in Bhutan is ours too."

Now China says, "That sanctuary in Bhutan is ours too."

 China claims eastern Bhutan

 After a violent confrontation with India in East Ladakh, China now claims territory near Bhutan's border.  Since China made a similar claim on Bhutan a few days ago, Delhi has expressed its displeasure.  Beijing has objected to the construction of the Sakteng Sanctuary in the Tashigang district of eastern Bhutan at a meeting held under the auspices of the Global Environment Facility (GEF).  Established in 1992, the GEF is a major source of funding for environmental projects, with some US financiers rejecting China's claim.

 Bhutan has objected to China's claim.  The GEF has provided funding for the sanctuary project after Bhutan rejected China's claim.  According to sources, the GEF rejected China's claim and approved the funding.  However, the meeting clearly showed the extreme differences between the parties on both sides.  Bhutan was represented by World Bank Executive Director Aparna Subramani.  Aparna, an IAS officer, has been representing Bangladesh, Bhutan, India and Sri Lanka before the GEF since September 1, 2017.  The issue came after China claimed Bhutan's territory at the 58th GEF meeting on June 2 and 3.  According to a report from the meeting, the Chinese delegation said, "The Sakteng Sanctuary Project (ID No. 10561) on the Sino-Bhutanese border is a disputed territory between China and Bhutan."

 Bhutan completely refuted China's claim.  Sakteng Sanctuary is an integral part of Bhutan.  Bhutan defends China in talks between Bhutan and China