'Unwarranted References, No Locus Standi': MEA Strongly Criticises Mention Of Jammu-Kashmir In China, Pakistan Joint Statement

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has reaffirmed on Thursday (13 June) that the Union territories of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh are integral and inalienable parts of India and will always remain so.

This statement has come in response to references made to Jammu and Kashmir in a joint statement by China and Pakistan, which the MEA has deemed 'unwarranted'.

"We have noted unwarranted references to the Union Territory of Jammu & Kashmir in the joint statement between China and Pakistan dated 7 June 2024," the MEA said in a statement.

It further stated, "We categorically reject such references. Our position on the issue is consistent and well-known to the concerned parties."

The ministry has emphasised that Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh are integral parts of India, and no other country has the right to comment on this matter.

"The Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir and the Union Territory of Ladakh have been, are, and will always remain integral and inalienable parts of India. No other country has the locus standi to comment on the same," the MEA reiterated.

Furthermore, the MEA pointed out that the joint statement from 7 June also mentions activities and projects under the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), some of which are located in territories that India considers to be under forcible and illegal occupation by Pakistan.

"The same joint statement also mentions activities and projects under the so-called China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), some of which are in India's sovereign territory under forcible and illegal occupation by Pakistan," the ministry noted.

It continued, "We resolutely oppose and reject any moves by other countries to reinforce or legitimise Pakistan's illegal occupation of these territories, impinging on India’s sovereignty and territorial integrity."

In their joint statement on 7 June, Pakistan briefed the Chinese side on the latest developments in Jammu and Kashmir.