China and Pakistan issue joint statement opposing unilateral actions on Kashmir matter | Global News

China and Pakistan Oppose Unilateral Action in South Asia, Discuss Kashmir Situation

During a recent visit by Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif to China, both countries expressed their opposition to any “unilateral action” for resolving outstanding issues in South Asia. The visit aimed to strengthen Chinese investments and assistance to Pakistan amid an economic crisis.

The joint statement issued at the end of the visit highlighted the importance of maintaining peace and stability in South Asia and the need for resolving all disputes through peaceful means. The statement also reiterated the historical nature of the Jammu and Kashmir dispute and called for its peaceful resolution in accordance with relevant UN resolutions and bilateral agreements.

India has consistently rejected such joint statements by China and Pakistan, asserting that Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh are integral parts of India. Pakistan downgraded its ties with India following the abrogation of Article 370 in 2019, while India has expressed its desire for normal relations with Pakistan, contingent on Islamabad creating a terror-free environment.

During the visit, Sharif met with Chinese President Xi Jinping and Premier Li Qiang to discuss political and strategic developments related to India. The two countries also reaffirmed their strong military cooperation, with China emerging as a major supplier of military equipment to Pakistan in recent years.

The visit also saw the signing of 23 agreements and MOUs covering various areas of cooperation, including the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) and military technology. Both sides agreed to strengthen communication and coordination on the Afghanistan issue, with Pakistan accusing the Taliban government in Kabul of supporting terrorism on its soil.

Overall, the visit underscored the close ties between China and Pakistan, with both countries committing to deepening strategic cooperation and contributing to regional peace and stability.