China again declines to confirm backing Pakistan on Kashmir

27 September, Beijing

China has snubbed Pakistan by declining to back reports in Pakistani media claiming Beijing’s support for the country in the event of any aggression and backing it on the Kashmir issue.

Asked about alleged remarks by Consul General in Lahore on extending support to Pakistan, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Geng Shuang told media persons in Beijing that he is not aware of any such remarks made by the envoy.

China once again appealed India and Pakistan to engage in dialogue to resolve all outstanding issues and jointly work towards peace and stability in South Asia. With regard to the Kashmir issue, Geng said it is an issue left over from history.

He expressed hope that the relevant parties will peacefully and properly resolve the issue through dialogue and consultation.

Geng was replying to a question about remarks attributed to Chinese Consul General in Lahore made during his meeting with Chief Minister of Pakistan’s Punjab province Shahbaz Sharif.

This is for the second time since September 22 that China distanced itself from the Pakistani media attributing Beijing’s support to Pakistan on Kashmir issue.