Q.463 Chinese highway projects in POK

Will the Minister of EXTERNAL AFFAIRS be pleased to state:

(a) whether Government is aware that China has recently signed a deal with Pakistan to build two highways in the disputed Pakistan occupied Kashmir (PoK) region;
(b) if so, the facts and details thereof;
(c) whether such activities by Chinese Government in PoK is posing serious threat to India; and
(d) if so, the reaction of Government on such activities of China and Pakistan?

ANSWER THE MINISTER OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS (SHRI S.M. KRISHNA)

(a) to (d) Government has seen reports to such effect. Government has raised this issue with the Chinese side and has clearly conveyed India’s consistent position that Pakistan has been in illegal occupation of parts of the Indian State of Jammu and Kashmir since 1947. China regards Kashmir as a bilateral matter to be settled between India and Pakistan. Government has conveyed its concerns to China about their activities in Pakistan Occupied Kashmir, and asked them to cease such activities. Government keeps a constant watch on all developments having a bearing on India’s national interest and takes all necessary measures to safeguard it.

http://www.mea.gov.in/mystart.php?id=220116275.

Rajya Sabha