India Rejects References to Jammu and Kashmir in China-Pakistan Joint Statement

New Delhi also rejected references to the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) that passes through Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK).

MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said, “We have noted unwarranted references to the Union Territory of Jammu & Kashmir in the joint statement between China and Pakistan of 07 June 2024. We categorically reject such references. Our position on the issue is consistent and well known to the concerned parties."

"The Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir and the Union Territory of Ladakh have been, are and will always remain integral and inalienable parts of India. No other country has the locus standi to comment on the same.”

Jaiswal added: “The same joint statement also mentions activities and projects under the so-called China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), some of which are in India's sovereign territory under forcible and illegal occupation by Pakistan. We resolutely oppose and reject any moves by other countries to reinforce or legitimise Pakistan's illegal occupation of these territories, impinging on India’s sovereignty and territorial integrity."

According to reports, the joint statement was issued in Beijing following talks between Pakistan Prime Minister Sharif and Chinese Premier Li Qiang. The Pakistan PM had also met Chinese President Xi Jinping during the visit.