BEIJING, June 29 (APP): China on Wednesday said that Pakistan was at
the forefront of counter-terrorism and had made important contribution to the international campaign against terrorism.
“I must say that Pakistan is at the forefront of counter-terrorism and
has made important contribution to the international campaign against terrorism,” Chinese Foreign Ministry’s Spokesperson Lu Kang said during his regular press briefing here.
He said the Chinese side maintained that the international community
should step up cooperation against terrorism, and should also fully recognize Pakistan’s efforts in this regard.
Regarding counter-terrorism and issues relating to other countries in
the region, he said, “We have noted the relevant reports. I would like to say that the Chinese government is consistent and clear on counter-terrorism.”
Lu Kang said the Chinese side opposed all forms of terrorism and linking
terrorism with any specific country, adding “We call for international cooperation against terrorism on the basis of mutual respect.”
About the Indian prime minister’s recent meeting with US President
Donald Trump in Washington, he said, “We have been saying that China welcomes friendly and cooperative relations among all countries, and hope that such kind of relations will contribute to peace, stability and prosperity of the region and beyond.”
As for the Indian prime minister’s visit to the US and his discussion
with the US on relevant issues, he said, “We think it is quite normal for leaders of two countries to talk about issues of common interest, as long as their interaction is conducive to peace, stability, and prosperity of Asia.”
About the discussion and consensus between American and Indian leaders
on the issue of Afghanistan, he said that realization of peace and stability in Afghanistan at an early date served the common interests of the whole region.
“China always supports the “Afghan-led and Afghan-owned” reconciliation
process which is inclusive. We also welcome all parties’ constructive efforts in this aspect,” he added.
Responding to a question about reopening of Nathu-la pass in Sikkim
section of China-India border for Indian pilgrims, he said, “We have told the Indian side that the arrangement was put off as an emergency measure in response to the change of the situation caused by the Indian border troops’ trespass.”
Lu Kang stressed that Indian pilgrims’ trip to Xi Zang required
necessary atmosphere and conditions, adding, the Indian side was to blame for the trip not being able to take place as scheduled.
He said, “As for when the pilgrimage route will reopen, it totally
depends on whether the Indian side can correct its mistake in time.”
To yet another question, he said, China’s construction of road in Doklam
was an act of sovereignty on its own territory, adding, “It is completely justified and lawful, and others have no right to interfere”.
The spokesperson stressed that Bhutan was a world-recognized,
independent sovereign state and hoped that all countries can respect Bhutan’s sovereignty.
Although the boundary between China and Bhutan is yet to be demarcated,
the two sides have been working on that through peaceful negotiation, he said and added “Any third party must not and does not have the right to interfere, still less make irresponsible moves or remarks that violate the fact.”
