LAHORE: In the wake of rising tensions at borders with India, China has assured in unequivocal terms its support in case of any foreign aggression and also supported Pakistan’s stance on the Kashmir dispute, according to a press release issued by the Punjab Chief Minister Office.

“In case of any [foreign] aggression our country will extend its full support to Pakistan,” Consul General of China in Lahore Yu Boren was quoted as saying by the CM Office on Friday.

Beijing conveyed the message during a meeting of its top diplomat in the provincial capital with Chief Minister Shahbaz Sharif. “We’re and will be siding with Pakistan on Kashmir issue...There is no justification for atrocities on unarmed Kashmiris in...[India-] held Kashmir and the Kashmir dispute should be solved in accordance with aspirations of the Kashmiris,” the press release quoted the emissary as assuring the chief minister.

Mr Yu, who called on Shahbaz Sharif to felicitate the latter on his 65th birthday, discussed with the chief minister the situation developing in held Kashmir and the progress being made on various projects under the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC).

According to the CM Office, a portion of the CPEC involves a part of the disputed region.

Referring to the support Beijing has been extending to Islamabad at all international forums, the diplomat reportedly said his country would continue supporting Pakistan through thick and thin.

Published in Dawn September 24th, 2016