India has categorically rejected unwarranted references to the Union Territory of Jammu & Kashmir in a joint statement issued by China and Pakistan following Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif's visit to China. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal stated that the Union Territories of Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh have always been and will remain integral parts of India. He emphasized that no other country has the locus standi to comment on the matter.
India's Stance on CPEC Projects
Regarding the so-called China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) projects, some of which are located in Indian territory, Jaiswal said India resolutely rejects any moves by other countries to reinforce or legitimize Pakistan's illegal and forcible occupation of these territories. Such actions impinge on India's sovereignty and territorial integrity, he added.
Trans-boundary Water Resources Cooperation
When asked about references to the so-called 'trans-boundary water resources cooperation' between China and Pakistan, the official clarified that as far as India is concerned, such a question does not arise. India maintains that any cooperation on water resources involving Indian territories is not permissible without its consent.
India's strong response underscores its unwavering position on the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh, and its opposition to any external interference in these matters.
