China: Ready to talk with India about CPEC
China is finally ready to discuss the issue of the contentious $50bn China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) with India. The CPEC is the principal constituent of China's "Belt and Road Initiative" (BRI). It passes through Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. Beijing's reaction came after India's Ambassador to China Gautam Bambawale conveyed a stern message to China that the issue can't be pushed under the carpet. Here's more.
What is the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor?
The China-Pakistan Economic Corridor is an under construction development project which seeks to improve Sino-Pak connectivity and enhance regional trade. The project envisages the creation of energy pipelines, road-and-rail links and industrial trade corridors between China and the Pakistani port of Gwadar.
What did Gautam Bambawale say to Beijing?
Earlier, Bambawale had asked China not to ignore Delhi's concerns towards the CPEC. In a hard-hitting view, he said "The China-Pakistan Economic Corridor passes through Indian-claimed territory (PoK) and hence violates our territorial integrity. This is a major problem for us." His message was: China can't hope to tap Indian markets and improve economic ties while disregarding India's sovereignty concerns.
Now, what is China's reaction?
Acknowledging the statements, Chinese foreign ministry spokeswoman Hua Chunying said "As to the differences between China and India (regarding CPEC), China stands ready to communicate and hold talks with India to seek a proper solution so that these differences will not affect our general national interests." She claimed that CPEC "is merely an economic cooperation project," which doesn't target a third party.
