Facts favor China in standoff

Since the standoff began between China and India on a remote Himalayan plateau in mid-June, Foreign Ministry spokespersons have issued one strong statement after another, asking India to withdraw its troops from Donglang, and warning it against miscalculations and nurturing illusions. And Defense Ministry spokespersons have stressed the resolution of the People's Liberation Army to defend China's territory and called on India not to underestimate the country's determination to safeguard its sovereignty.

In the past, India and China have been able to manage their differences over their disputed borders that have arisen from time to time.

But the Chinese government's strong response suggests something is different this time.