BEIJING – Rejecting India’s concerns, China on Tuesday stayed away fromcommenting on Pakistan’s decision to declare country’s northern regionGilgit-Baltistan as its fifth state.
Beijing also maintained the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), whichpasses through GB region will not affect its neutrality on the issue.
“We have noticed relevant reports. Firstly, the Kashmir issue is ahistorical baggage between India and Pakistan and therefore it should beresolved between the two through dialogue and consultation,” ChineseForeign Ministry spokesperson Hua Chunying said.
“And secondly, we have stressed a many time that the CPEC is initiative foreconomic cooperation. This is cooperation framework, which serves thepurpose to enhance economic development and people’s livelihood.”
“So this initiative does not affect our position on the Kashmir issue,” Huasaid. – APP/AFP