China clarifies on media reports, denies intentions to mediate on Kashmir issue

After an article in the Global Times regarding China's intervention in the Kashmir's issue, the country has now denied that it has any prior intentions to mediate between India and Pakistan.

It also said that $50 billion- China Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) project has not affected its stand on the issue which should be settled bilaterally.

"China's position on the issue of Kashmir is clear and consistent. It is an issue left over from history between India and Pakistan, and shall be properly addressed by India and Pakistan through consultation and negotiation," Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Geng Shuang told PTI.

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The article read that China has always adhered to the principle of non-interference in the internal affairs of other countries, but that doesn't mean Beijing can turn a deaf ear to the demands of Chinese enterprises in protecting their overseas investments. Given the massive investment that China has made in countries along the One Belt, One Road, China now has a vested interest in helping resolve regional conflicts including the dispute over Kashmir between India and Pakistan.

China shall play a "constructive role" for the improvement of relations between India and Pakistan, the country may not actively participate in resolving the issue.

"We sincerely hope that India and Pakistan will properly handle differences by increasing communication and dialogue, and jointly uphold regional peace and stability. China is willing to make constructive efforts for the improvement of India-Pakistan relations," Geng said.

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The article justified the Chinese intervention in the dispute on the grounds of protecting heavy investments being made by Beijing under its Silk Road initiative, 'One Belt and One Road'.

(With inputs from PTI)