Amid its ongoing rift with China, India confirmed the Dalai Lama's proposed visit to Arunachal Pradesh next year.

The spiritual leader is expected to visit Tawang Monastery in the region, following an invitation from the state chief minister Pema Khandu. The visit, which was announced earlier this month, is likely to further strain the fragile relationship between India and China.

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A spokesperson for the Indian external affairs said the Dalai Lama is a "guest of India" and is free to make visits across the country. He also added that the leader has visited the state during earlier occasions and there is nothing unusual about his upcoming visit.

Tawang Monastery is one of the biggest monasteries in Asia and the Dalai Lama has massive following there.

The Tibetan government in exile has not made any remark. However, Tenzin Takla, Dalai Lama's spokesperson, said the spiritual leader has accepted the invitation extended by the chief minister and people of Arunachal Pradesh.

He is expected to visit the place during the latter half of March. Dalai Lama was scheduled to visit the state in 2009 as well, it was canceled allegedly because of the pressure from China.

The announcement of the Dalai Lama's visit to Arunachal Pradesh came on the heels of another controversial visit to the state by the US ambassador to India. It was learned that China registered its strong opposition to the visit. The country admonished the United States for visiting the disputed area.

Lu Kang, spokesperson for Chinese Foreign Ministry, said China was "firmly opposed" to the visit. The country also claimed the visit is likely to damage the situation at the China-India border. 

Tagschina, India, Dalai Lama