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WASHINGTON: The Trump administration has informed Congress that it too believes the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) passes through a disputed territory — originally an India claim aimed at thwarting the development plan.
The $56 billion CPEC passes through Pakistan’s northern areas, which India claims is part of the disputed Jammu and Kashmir territory.
“The One Belt, One Road also goes through disputed territory, and I think that in itself shows the vulnerability of trying to establish that sort of a dictate,” US Defence Secretary James Mattis told the Senate Armed Services Committee.
Examine: CPEC and Kashmir issue
Secretary Mattis and Chairman Joint Chiefs of Staff Gen Joseph Dunford appeared before the Senate and House armed services panel earlier this week to brief US lawmakers on the current situation in the Pak-Afghan region.
Secretary Mattis said the US opposed the One Belt, One Road policy in principle because in a globalised world, there were many belts and many roads, and no one nation should put itself into a position of dictating One Belt, One Road. And it opposed the one going through Pakistan also because it passed through a disputed territory.
The new US position on CPEC will further strain already tense relations between the US and Pakistan, which also opposed the greater role Washington has assigned to India in Afghanistan in a strategy President Trump announced on Aug 21.
“As far as Afghanistan goes, as we try to separate out variables where, in some areas, we work with China, for example, terrorism — I think there are areas where we can work — find common ground with China when it comes to counterterrorism, and we should exercise those areas pretty fully,” said the US defence chief.
“But we should be under no illusions,” he warned. “There are areas where, also, strategically, we need to confront China where we think it’s unproductive — the direction they’re going in.”
Published in Dawn, October 7th, 2017
Comments (316) Closed
Real face of US exposed
Yet another Dictator in rise! are you kidding with me Mattis, You bought the porto rico, Hawaii and all those territory and have problem with this..wah wah.
@Muhammad and what does it mean?
After all they announced the main concern . They don't want to see development in the region!!! Now if India is really want peace in the region then join CPEC and close all conspiracies. Imagine half of the world.population lives in this region having russia, china and india together do we need any support from other part of the world.
Its not , kashmir belongs to Pakistan!
It took the US so long ... to admit this fact...
@Sam USA don't want to see a prosperous Pakistan, America should support CPEC and OBOR projects instead of creating hurdles
The ground reality is that Pakistan shares a border with China, it does not share a border with the US. You can read into it whatever you like.
Guys there is no point of fighting each other now the world is not even willing to talk to Pakistan so time has come to fix the issues and come back strong again. Dawn did a good job on reporting many critical issues I hope govt will listen to those.
Ladies and gentlemen! After "The Afghan Fiasco", US of America presents "Confronting China", co-produced by India. Good luck with that!
Get united and earn respect.
What does US is doing in Afghanistan, Iraq, Syria saving millions of people, or only you have the right to kill. Resolve that dispute don't shy away when Pakistan ask you to resolve issues between both countries, because that suits you. US has no right to discus disputes between two sovereign countries. Help them or keep your mouth shut. Its can't be sell your arms and have fun.
Please help arrange a plebiscite in Jammu and Kashmir then we can resolve the disputed territory issue.
It will be interesting to see how the US proceeds with this claim, considering that it owes China over 3 trillion USD in loans. One thing is for sure that both India and the US are on the same page on this absurd claim and their joint goal is to deny China's rapidly increasing global influence and progress.
Pakistan should give Trump a Shut-Up call now like North Korea.
In that case US accepts Kashmir needs resolution as per UN resolution and plebiscite.
OBOR has an aggregate positive impact on Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness in our region.
Only one country in the world would agree with Mattis. So this is clearly a minority view.
Mattis nice try man but you're a 3 years too late.
Considering that the US does not support nations who do business with Iran, I wonder how the US feels about India financing the Chahbahar port.
So now US recognizes that Kashmir is a disputed area which needs to be resolved.
u.s are conceal, poisnous ,entity for pak.
US is root cause of problem in our area.Pakistan should stop US passage of arms and supplies to Afghanistan.
Hypocracy at its best . When Pakistan raise the issue of human rights violations by Indian Army in Kashmir .US stay silent. These double standards have created problems perticularly in Muslim world.
Tell US whole Kashmir is a disputed territory, tell US to ask India to honour UN resolution
Looks like Secretary Mathis is talking like a party in the conflict. There is no conflict now, but it looks a " will be a conflict ". Mr. Mathis should stay out of the Kashmir issue.
How would China feel if Hong Kong or other disputed areas are used by other nations to build infrastructure. Think should be made clear their assets in a disputed territory (CPEC) aren't safe in the event of a military escalation.
they are selfish and never learned anything from down fall
Afghanistan invasion by US has always been a question mark Now US increased interest in Afghanistan and sub continent is exposed by US opposition to CPEC. Both US and India should remember that CPEC is a giant venture with China and China is no ordinary country.
Shouldn't come to us as a surprise. This reaction from Washington was expected, as Trump perceives China as the new threat to U.S global hegemony. That is why the U.S wants to enhance its cooperation with India, because both have a common enemy now (China).
Rational and sensible decisions at strategic levels are required....
Battle of nerves begins ...
Best response = Unity + Faith + Discipline
United States accepted the need of plebiscite in Kashmir and Right of self determination for the Kashmiris. Biggest success of Pakistani narrative in present era. United Nations should conduct plebiscite ASAP in Kashmir.
Truth is being accepted by the outside world
The solution of internal problems will lead Pakistan to come out of the influence of the world powers.
Thank you so much Sir
Now that we acknowledge that the whole Kashmir issue is a dispute between three parties and the UN already has a longstanding resolution on the issue, let’s just have that plebiscite everyone agreed upon decades ago. Let’s resolve this issue immediately and get it over with.
Very correct, China should not intervene in disputed areas of its neighbors else it will be in mess in future. Kashmir belongs to India as king Hari Singh signed instrument of accession and joined union of India.
this is the real problem US with pakistan
If CPEC is passing through a disputed territory, then what about the dams that are built by India in the disputed territory. US face the reality now China is playing a more constructive role. US is only worried because CPEC will undermine the role of India vis-a-vis China in the region.
Finally, we see real bias toward India on Kashmir issue. How about implementing UN declarations on Kashmir.
Now onward no bank will sanction loan. Nor any foreign company will invest in this region . Only. All wether friend ,but others will go away if they have invested. U s a will keep eye on . Wait wait. For long term impact on all projects
So, ultimately the cat came out of the bag.
this is no less than stupid thinking - US again does not realize the ground realities. Working under the baseless notions will be another downfall. People in northern Pakistan will be never willing to see Indians on the ground. USA should open their eyes and look into Indian held Kashmir which is infact in dispute - do not bury your head in sand. China will continue their pursuit USA has miserably failed in southeast Asia. By stoking Hindu nationalism isn't doing any benefit to India itself
Pakistan should not miss this unique opportunity to raise the UN resolution for plebiscite in Kashmir, as Matti's has reaffirmed it is a disputed territory. So India's claim has been shattered.
Then tell your buddies in India to leave Kashmiris to decide where they want to be and if they allow this road to be built or not, it is too late to give these comments, your are putting weight behind loosers in this matter.
Cat is out of the bag. CPEC is the real problem.
U.S., a country that dictates and interferes in many countries of world without any justification. Such intensity has increased after assuming of power by a strange set of people. God bless the peace and justice!
“... and no one nation should put itself into a position of dictating ...” Exactly that is what US should be telling itself.
Interesting position. In that case ALL developnent in IHK should also be suspended.
ok so solve it with the pending UN resolution? Tell us again who is blocking it?
This is Pakistan's one time best friend speaking, America always stabbed Us in the back, long live Pakistan Chine friendship.
@Nauman Yes US agree Kashmir is disputed territory and this issue is bilateral between Pakistan and India accordance to Shimla agreement1971 and lahore declaration2001. UN has gave up the resolution because Pakistan and india both agreed to solve Kashmir issue bilaterally in 1971 Shimla accord and then again ratified in 2001 Lahore declaration. No naturally UN has no roles in Kashmir dispute from 1971 onwards.
Its refreshing to see US actually acknowledging this as a disputed area its about time they should ask india to stop building dams in disputed areas.
This is where US is feeling the pinch of losing one of its pawns, hence; they are here to create hurdles. Kashmir belongs to Pakistan and it could have been solved earlier only if our politicians were willing to do something. India doesn't care about Kashmir and are only interested in its strategic placement. If they really cared, then it would have been solved way earlier and there would have been peace in the region. Then again, India has disputed territories with almost all countries that borders with it. US feels threatened that development of areas in Pakistan and economic growth may become stagnant in US and Pakistan may not be dependent on US aid which could mean that they would have less leverage over dictating policies in Pakistan. Nevertheless,it is time for Pakistanis to unite and we must put aside our individuality and focus on oneness. Pakistan biggest flaw is that we divided lands based on ethnicity which has made separations within our people. Unite now or face the hell
Can you say in same words Kashmir as the disputed territory!
Wao what an hipocratic nation... On one hand they believe India Pakistan to resolve issues bilaterlly and on the other they don't miss an opportunity to interfere in other bilateral projects. "No Nation should dictate one road and one belt" except USA which can even dictate which regimes should be in power in other countries !!!
The claws finally come out...
With friends like the US, who needs enemies? The realignment in South Asia is now complete. US & India are on one side - Pakistan and China on the other.
As India experienced such venture by China in 1962, this project appears to have much deeper designs
As expected. Pakistan needs to complete this project at an even faster pace now. America will never be a reliable partner for Pakistan.
@Ali very well said.
Cat coming out from bag.... this is real face of friendship of 70 years old decieving ally. US was is and will not be wellwisher of any Muslim country specially atomic asset holder Pakistan. New world order designed by US and it's time to implementation under which us had destroyed all key Muslim countries and dillute the essence of unity within Muslim brotherhood.
Well said. Many countries will start raising these questions. True face of China will come . Wait and see.
So you accept Kashmir is a disputed territory. Well there are UNSC resolutions on resolving the dispute. The international community including the US should ensure their implementation if they are sincere in bringing peace to South Asia.
US won't let CPEC let succeed.
When CPEC is not at all important to US or India, why care?
Why this man not concentrate on their matters. Please clean your street, otherwise your vehicle gets puncture
So what is the furture of cpec now? will middle countries which supports us will use this alternate trade route? Will countries invest in this route claimed disputed by us?
US desperately trying to stay relevant.
only and one best solution of Kashmir problem, India, Pakistani and Bangladesh become friends and make all internation al borders irrelevant and united and make new autonomous governing systems for regional inspiration. b united live with Peace ,respect each other's custom and religions and grow together . there is enough resources and wealth.
Does USA realizes after seventy years that Kashmir is a disputed territory? Pakistan has been crying for the past seventy years that Kashmir is a disputed territory and USA always ignored the pleas to help solve the dispute. Now USA should force India to implement UN resolutions to solve the dispute.
Look who is talking...US of A..world leader in wars incorporated....ethnic cleanser of Blacks and Native Americans...perpetrators of longest running reign of wars, two times user of atomic bombs......in my childhood, I thought iranians were hysterical what they labelled USA as....they weren't too wrong.
Someone should tell Gen. Mattis that day dreaming is hazardous to our helath.
It is all doing for India but they will not sent their force to Afghan , actually very clever
Reality of CPEC will now coming out in day light. If some one set up road in Taiwan what China will do. Next steps may be on that line.
This from a country, which bought Louisiana from France, Mexico/California, Arizona, Nevada from Spain , Puerto Rico, occupied half of Cuba......there incredulous sense of entitlement is dumb founding.
American government has been exposed throughout the world, and it is going to be bad for them. Unsuccessful coup in Turkey might become a turning point in the history of America. It is the beginning of their fall because the whole world is fed up of their hypocrisy; they are always insincere even to their, so called, friends.
@India First₹ Really????
America pakistan relationship will be strained.America is a 18000 billion USD economy to pakistan's 200 billion USD economy.What sort of relationship does pakistan have with 90 times powerful nation.
So technically and politically USA has acknowledged that occupied Jammu and Kashmir is a disputed territory. So please allow a plebiscite there as a bacon right for the people of J&K.
India and us are our real enemy
India and us are our real enemy and they use Afghanistan against us
He is only stating the fact.
Geo politics, there are no permanent friends or foes, only permanent intetests
@Zak : Or as per the 1972 Simla agreement.
Now you realize that it's disputed. No pallet gun and no offense by Indian army could make you realized. Kashmir is already Pakistan.
""It opposed the one going through Pakistan also because it passed through a disputed territory, Secretary Mattis said. This statement coming out at this stage not only should tell Pakistan gov but also its 210-million people a. USA behind n never was or will to get Kashmir issue resolution; b. It was n will remain hidden policy to (around globe) talk peace, equality, sermons of democracy etc. In fact agenda "war's must exist no matter in which part of globe - so it keep its war economy going". We must admire one smaĺ minority nation which planned, design USA economical cycle.
Now the cat is out of the bag
@Amajad bilal Your biggest enemy is lack of education and poverty
Friends are NO friends
US can never be sincere to Pakistan. The need of the hour is internal cohesion and unity among all provinces, political and religious factions, and complete alignment with our security forces. Given these, US or no US, our national pursuit of strategic and economic interests can never be hampered by any body.
Is Khwaja Asif still in the U.S? The more he stays, more such statements are expected from the U.S! Good outcome!
Nothing seems to be able to change the opinion in Pakistan that Pakistan is right, and every nation in the world is wrong.
China invited India to join CPEC just to get an implicit acknowledgement of Aksai Chin. India was smart enough to reject the offer and now the legitimacy of CPEC has gone down the drain.
Dear Trump administration,
The Jammu & Kashmir also comes under boundary of Pakistan as rest of country is. Therefore, it is not a disputed territory. CPEC is in progress & meet all national & international laws. So, please update your self. CPEC will more strengthen Pak-China economic relations and will create many social, financial, economical opportunities for both countries. So, please don't dictate us in CPEC matter.
Explicit opposition is visible. Indian lobby is very strong in US and Pakistan has failed to gain ground among American policy makers by lobbying actively there.
The cat comes out of the bag!
USA cannot challenge Pak-China partnership - world will see
Lol and behold, all the diplomatic discrimination Pakistan faces is because of this CPEC, India and US can't digest an economic advancement in Pakistan. This statement by Secretary Mattis is so below the belt, it's funny.
The only one yo blame for the situation is pak politicians.
US says CPEC passes through disputed territory. So what is your problem US ? How does it effect US.
CPEC is the lifeline of Pakistan and the forces who oppose this project are real enemy of the country.
He didn't even say CPEC. He's talking about the philosophy of OBOR overall, not one specific part of it. Americans know economic growth in Pakistan will lead to a stable Pakistan, and it wants a stable PakistanZ
Dear sir ...since u claim to be the part of civilized nations why dont you encourage india to hold referendum or hold plebiscite and decide the matter once and for all. It the matter is pending with UN for ages...Sir with due respect China has spent billions...do you sincerely think that China will give up so easy...instead or creating distress why dont you ask india to join in and be the part of prosperity...unless your intention are to divide and rule...
Finally us problem in Afghanistan is not Haqani network its CPEC.
USA, have never been a reliable partner to Pakistan.
@Sam Stooge...lackey...illeterate....if u dont know what it means....thats what US is saying...
the oil from iraq was not from disputed territory.
@Sam let me give you reply. US does not like Pakistan, China, Russia cooperations.
US does not want any nation to prosper in reality. China, Russia understands it very well.
@Zak "In that case US accepts Kashmir needs resolution as per UN resolution and plebiscite."
Read the UN resolution first.
Rightly said. One should accept this fact
Finally US has got the fact correct.
I am with US defence secretary on this. If Azad Kashmir is disputed then so is Indian Occupied Kashmir. The only resolution is a plebiscite.
Not surprised, everything that is related to China or Russia is not acceptable by US. Simple plain dumb logic
China surpassed US economically probably 2011 when Michael Jackson died, China, India Pakistan all manufacture goods for US and create pollution in their own countries cause US environmental laws r so strict that in order to have even a parrot at home u need to confirm with their laws here every one wants to settle in developed regions but don't even bother traffic rules of our own homeland. This shows lack of respect to rules of the country
Pakistan and China don't give two cents about what Trump Administration and the Indians think about CPEC. CPEC is a reality, no option other than accepting it!
Bang On James Mattis!!
Fortunatly there is no border between India and Afghanistan! for Pakistan it's time to reshape his relationship with US.
@Harivadan and what sort of relationship is India trying to establish with 16 times powerful economy?
Road has been build , sir now what next? However Very sad development.
Battle lines are being drawn. China, Russia, Pakistan and Iran on one side and US, India & Afghanistan on the other.
Long term plans are being laid out for this region. One will start seeing results of US intention in coming years.
It is not under a disputed territory. its a land Owned by PAKISTAN. Pakistan and CHINA already had the kara korum Highway since 2 decades.
Look who is supporting India....Great diplomacy by present government.....Superb work.....
None of your bussiness.
@Fareed N i hope you have read the resolution well to understand its terms and condition.
Hypocrisy at it's peak.
Indeed a disputed territory but what about india putting so many dams in that territory as well besides for almost 70 years or so that they their silence why now ...it because of CEPC ...the bottom line is they do not want Pakistan to flourish specially China a thorny issue for USA
Exposed! Exposed! Why it took you so long to speak the truth.
america is not our friend ayub khan told you to keep away from america .
@Keen Reader Please check your facts again. Iran is building Chabhar port will India.Russia is india's strategic partner.Russia is building nuclear power plants in india.Moreover, Every thing is not always battle or battle lines.Economic play major role than military.
@parvez mahmood CPEC would never had been the problem if you had not created problem for all neighbours.When they pay you in the same coin why you get angry.
Still Pakistan leaders visit and look toward enemy for help.
While no one in commnents section empahasises that pakistan has lost a friend for 5 decades ! is this not triumph of modi ? next may be china and nk to follow ! i can read the pre decreits ! can any one ?
Haven't expected USA to use these sort of cheap politics which were earlier used frequently by India. Tough time ahead for Pakistan and nation needs unity to face all challenges.
Pakistan-China need to bolster their relations on all fronts and CPEC should achieve its objective in defined timeline.
CPEC is life for Pakistan. Because our all neighboring countries on East and West and working hard to isolate us from the rest of World. We need to strengthen our cooperation with China, Russia and Central Asian bloc. And should say bye-bye to Arab and Muslims hegemony and OIC.
He is totally speaking what india saying
The foreign policy decision making needs a change in Pakistan. We need to stand up to US, but move forward in resolving our issues with neighbours including India.
@Nizamuddin Ahmad Aali now you don't want third party intervention???
The US and India are being ruled by the great leaders Trump and Modi. This is the right time to solve Kashmir.
Kudos US
Who cares what the US thinks?
CPEC not going to be rolled back. However the dispute can be resolved by holding a referendum in Kashmir .
Trump administration wants to de-stabilize the region specifically and the world generally for its own gains. Sell their military gadgets. If its serious then US should first facilitate a referendum in Kashmir then talk about disputed territories. Ignore US, it's current administration has made it a laughing stock ...
hahaha... a joke of the century...! The most powerful country of the world and the so called super power is back biting like ill mannered women. The reality is that in spite of all your powers along with your so called allies, including India, you could not defeat hundreds of Taliban and fighting the longest and useless war at the cost of us tax payers and near to be defeated at the hands of hundreds or max few thousand Taliban and now talking to oppose CHINA and Russia with the help of helpless India....Wahwah.....what to say....bravo... you will lose another 18 year with collapse of your down trended economy... you will lose badly and ?????
US wants its own hegemony. That is called dictatorial attitude.
@Fiaz USA, have never been a reliable partner to Pakistan. As long as you were getting money from them they were good,now fund flow is drying up and you are unhappy.
The dispute is 70 years old. India is building dams in disputed area, where was america then. What have they done to resolve the dispute. America is a most untrustworthy friend. Now is the time to show them their worth. All Pakistan politicians should unite to minimize our relation with USA
US does not want slogan 'One Belt One-Road' raised by China itself. US considers such slogans are its sole property and no nations have right to use such slogans. Rising China is real pain for US.
US, so concerned about 'Disputed Territory' has never shown interest in stopping the killings of thousands of Kashmiris..Why are you so silent, Mr. Flag Carrier of Human Rights?
thousands miles away what is USA's problems when two neighbours do business deal with one another ?It's beyond me ,honestly!
Guam Island is illegally occupied by USA for many years and now the very same country making idiotic comments on CPEC. US never wanted Pakistan,s prosperity.
Nothing new, but timing matters. Today it’s pak-China days, and in future it will be only Pak and rest of the world. No one stand by Pak.
@Zak read the resolution first
Whats the timeline for CPEC? Has anybody cared to check when it will actually be complete? Is it on schedule...if there is any?
I get a feeling that CPEC is just an imaginary thing to keep Pakistan busy hoping...as absolutely nobody seems to have any idea about the milestones involved
@Sam It means that the US government has no claims to a moral high ground as it likes to pretend. It has become part of an obscene war machine--which is unfortunate, because most Americans are decent enough people.
In the long run US relationship is far more important than that with the inscrutable Chinese. A very clear statement by US - there are many roads and many belts not just one as per the Chinese.
Satyamev Jayate.....
Finally USA is speaking truth.....and this will set USA free and close the Afghanistan chapter
@Ali Only in your head.
Pakistan's first response to this nonsensical US statement against CPEC, should be immediate stop of US supplies going to Afghanistan, through Pakistan.
@Dil , LOL, what is the reason for problems in Turkey, Philippines, Iraq... Don't blame others, why Japan is peaceful...
Hey America, your days of playing the worlds policeman are over. Mind your own ignorant island with your buffoon president. The people of Pakistan, unlike their corrupt government, are honorable and don't need your interference , won't stand for it, in our affairs.
How hypocritical and opportunistic can the US be. I hope no one gets fooled here
Only one solution.... No need to heed US again and again. Khawaja Asif should sit calm and relax.
Here's the "Cat of the Bag".
CPEC passes through Pakistan, and Pakistan only!
Now America is playing with real fire.America running fast to its end.!
China is genuinely worried about the safety of CPEC
Basically it is US shoulder with Indian gun. India can't stop OBOR so now they are trying to involve the US. Let's see who has more pressure and succeeds? China-led bloc or Indian aspirations?
cpec game over ...
The whole world that CPEC will be a failure
Iron brother has to provide everything from now onwards. No more loans from IMF or World bank. Time to work and stand on own legs.
This is high time that India and Pakistan must become friends and live cordially. This is the only viable and practical solution. It would save huge expenditure on military and help boost economy of both the nations. Pakistani establishment need to bring radical reforms in governance and society. A prosperous Pakistan will benefit India and vice versa. Expecting and involving other countries to solve the problem is a mistake. They would never do it on purpose.
Pakistan will keep working for its interest in the region. Long live pak china friendship
@Amin S Arab read the resolution first
USA has showed his real face now. It means America is Pakistan's as enemy as India. Pakistan mist not back out from CPEC, this is once in a lifetime chance.
@Rehan : And what will you do with it? You can hardly sustain yourself. Except for a small minority of brainwashed hotheads Kashmiris, as whole are quite content being part of India and proud of it. Please just stop interfering and concentrate on development of Pakistan that you already have.
Hope the USA’s democratic institutions and its people are strong and sensible enough to rationalize the confrontational attitude in the world of its present regime and sections thereof. Meanwhile, hope Pakistani rulers can take time from internal skirmishes to spare time for addressing such issues effectively.
Well when we keep asking you to talk to India to get the Kashmir issue out between the 2 countries you say it is between Pakistan and India so now please sit tight and do not get involved and CPEC is here to stay. It will bring a lot of prosperity to Pakistan which I am sure you guys are delighted about.
wow! double standard of the US exposed. They are silent over Indian atrocities in IOK which the US claims to be her top priority to stand against injustice beside democratisation. And they have always shown nonchalance towards Kashmir issue while still when it comes to peaceful side of Kashmir they came up with this nonsense.
US has realised it needs India to expand its commercial business and Trump being a greedy business thats all he's concerned with. Pakistan is starting to sound more and more like Palestinians pleading to US for help but each time gets rebuked in favour of Israel. We are not helpless palestinians we are a nuclear power and time to start dictating our own policies. Pakistan needs to work with Iran China russia and turkey closely to combat this new paradigm of US Indian hostilities. Dont trust the US and dont 'work closely' as they want to tear Pakistan from the inside.
I feel for USA. They are furstrated as they are being kicked out of Afghanistan.
Us statement will give long term impact on this country . No bank vl finance , nobody will invest . Rely only on China and hand over entire country to them .
@M Mirza Giving shut-ip calls, no matter how genuine, is not a good strategy. You do not confront the US government that way. You work in the dark, behind the scenes with diplomacy and ground security, to protect your country.
Plebiscite in Kashmir is the only viable solution so that the decision regarding Kashmir's future can be made as per the will and consent of the people of Kashmir. United States has always recognized Kashmir as a disputed territory - an issue to be resolved between India and Pakistan through bilateral dialogue as per the agreement signed between ZA Bhutto and Indira Gandhi as prime ministers of their respective countries at Shimla, India.
@Shah, Canada I agree, NATO supplies must be terminated once and for all without further delay, included land, air and sea access.
Also, we REALLY need nuclear submarines with MIRV equipped ICBMs as soon as possible for our STRATEGIC deterrence. The time has come to discard the 2750km missile range limit strategy bow.
Pakistan should adopt a vibrant and rhetorical foreign policy to pursue its objectives it should hold firmly the friendships hands of China and tilt towards Russia, it should not care about the implications and the possible sanctions being imposed in the result of such an aggressive foreign policy. As the history of Pakistan-us relations shows that the US has never satisfied with the efforts of Pakistan for the achievement of US goals in the region and in the world be it fighting communism or the Taliban in Afganistan America has always blamed Pakistan and threatened to withdraw the military and economic support.
@Javed, the world is dominated by the money and money knows no borders.
@Shah, Canada Did you forget George W Bush's threat to Musharraf? You are either with us or against us? Like an obedient dog, Musharraf had allowed US passage through Pakistan. You stop passage now and be prepared to be bombed. We'll see what the Chinks will do to help you.
@M Mirza you must be kidding. Does Pakistan have the guts to do so as you say? North Korea does not depend on America as we do.
In fact he so says that India should resolve the disputed territory
There are many roads in this World which are passing through so called Disputed territories that does not mean you break the links and communication lines between the human beings !!!
@AXH, do not Forget the fact, America can print so many Dollars it wants. Afterall, Dollar is only dominent currency in the world.
The deterrence wiand the security of the supply lines will keep US at bay, for now.
Would somebody tell Americans to talk about kishanganga dam and other dams? These dams are in disputed territory.
This truth should be accepted.
I think Pakistan itself says that Kashmir is a disputed territory as per UN resolution. Then why so much reaction to this comment.
Using india's language.
Us is only saying what Pakistanis have been screaming for decades; kashmir is disputed!
Americans can be fooled some of the time - not Pakistanis, way more politically aware
An eye open moment for so called Pakistan politician & people of Pakistan!!
now the prejudice is coming out !! US you cannot hold it now !!
@Muhammad: Forget about face of US, talk about Pakistan's face. The image is too bad, completely screwed image. Daily meetings, many meeting a day are simply waste of time. Nothing good is happening for Pakistanis and Pakistan.
USA has a declared official stance on Kashmir as disputed area. And CPEC does go through it. So what do you want the Gen. to say before the committee. This briefing is intended for China not Pakistan. As for India, it is being used by USA as a pawn in this game against China. Mind you, no one is bothered about the people of Kashmir. In international politics it's always about economics and power, rest is just noise.
Disagreeing in principle ? CPEC is now reality not just a proposal. Pakistan’s control of AJK is not dependent on US approval and blessings but on the strentgh of armed forces. No doubt US is military super power but China is economic super power. Chimes trade routes were established hundreds years ago like Silk Road so there is nothing new except development of Gawader Port. Pakistan need to engage Pakistani work force in all projects of CPEC to keep them busy and productive
Now the real game is just started. china wud not be able to gain from cpec.
The great archangel US speaking for a lesser angel India!This cavorting is getting too far!CPEC is a real fact-US or India dont like it so what!
Thank you very much khawaja Asif for your visit to USA.
Yes it is passing through Pakistan northern territories, UN resolutions are there, why not address these issues resolve all out standing issues. Question: Is USA solving Palestine, Golan heights and Kurds issue.
I suggest u mattis and ur President mr, trump to mind ur business, i think there's nothing left interfer in CPEC. U better to find other then pak.
@Saud Nabi And still you allow their drones to move in your country freely.If you don't like America.Then why their drones are flying in your air.Make self respect brother
I'm happy for the position that US has taken. It is in the interest of Americans and the larger part of the world. I think Pakistan also will get benefited.
Without any doubt. It is disputed territory.
Clearly shows someone feels insecure..
@SMI so with India cpec is failure!
Plebiscite in Kashmir is the need of the hour
US was never a friend of Pakistan ! , Pakistan lost that respect, when joined the Americans to fight USSR. What made it worse, when Busharaf, joined American to fight Taliban ! Crediance of respect lost due to short sightedness of Pakistan for few cents. I am no PPP fan or zaliadari, but he said we should tax each American shipment from Karachi per container with duty tax . Because of erosion of Pakistan infrastructure. Americans would then would have appreciated Pakistan.
@Shah, Canada then why took billions of usd
They are just enemies, don't wanted to see a moving forward Pakistan ! Now Pakistan should seriously unit with Iran Turkey China and Russia and everyone will respect you.
@M Mirza agree, because you guys are like north Koreans, pain for the world
US position on CPEC will not be effective now nor will it be effective in future as there cannot be any action beyond just words to stop CPEC.
Well, he told the ultimate truth!
@Amin S Arab read it and implement you encroacher
@Nizamuddin Ahmad Aali hahaha...look who is saying, since last 70 years, your rulers are pleading with USA to involve in Kashmir, now that it has involved, you are feeling the heat
@Zak how could you think about UN will agree for plebscite.
@Asif A Shah first read the agreement & condition than talked about tha
US has no business meddling in CPEC.
OKay Mr Mattis - when the USA parked its Air craft carrier in the Arabian Gulf to attack India over Kashmir wasnt it disputed then? And What about the people of IOK they want to join Pakistan. You are a army general not a politician.
Time Pakistan cut its ties off from the USA and aligned itself with the Soviet Union and China. Shut down its embassy and take N Korea approach.
@Zak It accepts resolution of Kashmir as per document of accession signed by Maharaja Hari Singh ruler of Jammu and Kashmir on acceding to India.
This is great news for Pakistan. They finally have achieved true independence from a dependency that was not really there in the first place wholeheartedly. Now CPEC can be at the forefront for all diplomatic dilliberations and China will not let Pakistan back down from this enourmous project. This truly shows how China is playing a great game within the region and wants to solidify its regional reach before announcing itself as a leader on a global level.
@Ali This is your personal opinion and you can not force the world to agree with you.
India under Modi has turned into US proxy and a spoiler in the region.
Now Pakistan got too much in the plate. Very delicate challenges to handle being weak economically and isolated in the world. "Aage kuaa, Peeche khaee" May be it is too late now.
The US goverment should remember that this is a Billateral between two countries and no third country could dictate this and this view is also expressed by India.
What’s ur problem General? Y u interfere in something 1000 Kms from uSA
@Dr Shazad If you know the history well, let have a meaningful plebiscite if possible, with the people before pak introduced terror and violence resulting in the mass exodus of Kashmiri Pandits. Lets retain the 1980 population first and then have a balanced plebiscite. Do you think its possible. Let the real ones who belong to the land decide on their future...What you say?
@Marcus "Time Pakistan cut its ties off from the USA and aligned itself with the Soviet Union and China"
Stop living in the Cold War era - there is no Soviet Union today ! And Russia will never back Pakistan against India.
@Zak India also accepts that. Pakistan has torn thast paper to bits and misrepresented it to its own people. That is why everyone is ignorant. Do you know that Pakistan has to pull out all its armed forces from "Azad Kashmir" before any such vote?
But China is fully supporting CPEC shattering Indians motives.
"Political language is designed to make lie sound truth and murder respectable and to give an appearance of solidity to a pure wind."
George Orwell
US opposes development in Pakistan, we should have no illusions about that now. Full speed ahead with any and all kind of development, regardless of what anyone says.
@Khanm Chinese economic bubble is dependent on its main customers US, India and Europe. Pakistans economy is dependent on Chinese loans. When the tap is turned off at the source, the flow downstream will feel the squeeze.
The real question is what did Khawaja Asif go and do in the US ? The conflicting speeches from the Pakistan government and military is causing serious anxiety for the world.
Friendship with USA is most dangrous .
@Sam insincerity.
Does the US own the wbole planet?
And please don't forget that America belongs to the Native Americans. Why don't you practice what you preach.
Is someone from pak going to tell US that its whole war in Iraq was disputed? Its operations in Afghanistan are disputed? Its alliance with India is disputed? Its silence on Rohingya is disputed? Its sale of nuclear technology to India is disputed? The very foundation of US is based on disputes? Its illegal support of India in Afghanistan against Pakistan is disputed? Its role as a global policeman is disputed? AND its basic "White Man's Burden" is disputed? Simply speaking, when did UN sanction invasion on Iraq? Pakistani leadership should remind the US that when Pakistan talks about Kashmir issue, US's own dear friend tells the UN that Pak is living in the past and US grants India a silent approval for that. If recalling the dispute of Kashmir is living in past then telling Pakistan and China that CPEC passes through disputed territory is also the same issue and therefore, US as well as India are both living in that same past they accuse Pak for.
IMHO, Pak needs to first evaluate how beneficial CPEC will actually be. It seems to be a huge debt on a fragile economy that can leave the economy reeling for ages. First vet the numbers. Why is Govt hiding the loan details from the public?
@Karim Truth hurts and it will hurt more when you puts all your eggs in one basket and the fighting breaks out. The borrower will still owe the money to the lender, when US decides to confront China on this just as in South China Sea. If these words dont make sense today, please frame it and hang it on your walls. It will make sense one day.
Texas, Nevada and Southern California are disputed territories
Is Azad Kashmir disputed when those people are living in peace Why should development pause just because Kashmir dispute has not been settled as for India it too should develop Jammu and Kashmir as it is as much developed as third world countries
USA is two mouth snake. Pakistan should any talks and let them handle the Afghan mess, Pakistan being an ally of USA for 60 years and played important War to get Russian out of Afghanistan and make it a solo Super Power and also brought US and China to gather in 1969 Kissinger visit to China. ENOUGH is ENOUGH and NO MORE UNCLE SAM.
Pakistan must complete gas pipeline project with Iran at the earliest. We cannot compromise on national interests.
The Indian words from US mouth. This is how the world of might is right. Pakistan must/should consider what is best for its national interest. Just listen to them from one ear and let it go from the other. The tone USA is speaking with Pakistan is not acceptable at any level in Pakistan.
its a clear cut signal to china and Pakistan that US wants India to make sure that china will not extends its influence on the region Americans are in rush to hug India in order to safeguard and consolidate its diminishing footings in the region in the form of new Allie for Pakistan i would suggest to invest in education and cutting edge research instead of relaying on external force when you become strong you will be able to mend the minds of others as per your wishes the said narrative about education is though long lasting but its the guarantee and sole way to glory that our founding nations conceived
Us administration is bought by India through election contribution just like Israel, Pakistan should open there mind by appointing well educated and smart ministers, not what we have know most corrupt civilian and military officials.
How funny is it that these same pakistanis few time backed needed suuport of america on kashmir issue and now these same people are annoyed with america. I dont know what is ur foreign minister doing in america.
If Pakistan can gift away a part of the disputed territory to a third country the entire entire issue of J&K dispute is null and void as it has broken the treaty. It's time India too break both Indus water treaty and remove Articke 370 and allow all Indians to purchase land and set up businesses in J&K and then work on getting back the occupied land too
Well it is not disputed territory it is Kashmir which is integral part of Pakistan, u Americans have bad geographic n history knowledge, the united nation head quarter is in America, go and ask them about Kashmir dispute they will show u 1949 resolution or if u have enough courage visit Indian occupied Kashmir it will show u Kashmir belong to who.
Why America why? If the world is the name of many roads and belts than why opposing the move of constructing new roads and belts including the CPEC which will further facilitate the existing networks of roads and belts and will boost economy thereby changing the future prosperity of people of a country like us and others. A simple logic Mr. Mattis. We can not destroy ourselves for the happiness of an already economically stable country like yours. We the 200 million people have got our own limitations man. Understand them.
One statement and the whole nation is rattled. Contrary to what average Pakistanis think, the establishment (Islamabad + Rawalpindi) cannot part ways with the US. Wake up guys and smell coffee!
@Gaonwala As part of UN declaration, to do this, Pakistan needs to vacate pak held Kashmir first. Do that and then talk about UN plebiscite.
Oh Gosh!!! China should halt CPEC immediately and take back the money It invested in Pakistan. That would be the correct way forward.
@AW Have you read UN declaration? To fulfill it, you need to first vacate Pak occupied Kashmir. Your GOVT is the hinderence e, not us
The fun begins here.
US has been dictating the world through fake Petrodollar machinery. What face you have to criticise OBOR. Destroying any nation that tries to escape the fake Federal Reserve ponzi scheme. China is no Iraq or Libya. Don't forget the trillions you owe the Chinese. With Yuan being openly setup for Oil trading the US gig is over. Empires don't last long these days.
@Dr. Kapil Sharma from USA that means you dont watch the news...its an ind way of thinking."the world" you said? Only US trying to make u feel better . Work in progress already...try n stop china.
@Asif A Shah Sure for that first pakistan has to go back to the original position . Why pakistan is not doing that ? Think. ! The first condition is not done & you want the last thing to be done ! First pakistan will go back to its Original position & then India will go back & then UN will conduct . so without the first condition is meet you want the last one to be done. And during last 70 years the original inhabitants are not living there anymore the kashmiri pandits are equal stakeholders who were pushed from their home how they will participate ? If you have solutions for all these ( logical One) then talk on these. Thanks
The US has poked the beehive,
Both Pakistan and china in a mess now. The only global superpower has sided with India.
Most incompetent American administration. They dont know the abc of geography. It is like Russia telling US not to build anything in Alaska as it goes therough Greenland or it goes through Japan. If US conaiders Gilgit Baltisan as disputed then New York and Boston should also be considered disputed as Russia and China may have claims on part of it.
@Zak : please read the first condition of UN resolutions.
@AXH always remember, communist will never have influence in the world. China with sliding economically and developed countries are shifting it's manufacturing bases to Vietnam. I have started seeing a great shift in Canada market. Made in China is replacing with Made in Vietnam and Bangladesh. China can't reach to the top with negativity it's spreading main buyer countries.
Finally the cat is out of the bag !
The American itch! A Pakistan not dependent on US
@Asif A Shah Read the U.N. resolution.
No matter how problematic the issue might get we should brake our relationship with america. Cpec is a game changer for Pakistan it will uplift the Pakistani nation, it will turn pakistan into engine\powerhouse of asia. If a economic and military strong Pakistan is the problem for American, then we should not aid it and India in sabotaging our rights as human beings.
How about Kashmir itself? Why have you allowed India to oppress Kashmiris? Double standards.
Hey Americans, Texas, California and new Mexico belong to Mexico. The entire USA belong to the native indigenous people of the land your forefathers occupied after annihilating indigenous populations. The entire USA is disputed territory. Settle that record first.
"...no one nation should dictate...." Yeah, somehow its okay to restrict nuclear technology to a few countries. And its okay for a few countries to have the ability to veto all other countries opinions. Its okay to force trading in a single currency. And its intolerable to accept a country other than yours to take a leading role in international affairs even if its primarily non-military. Hypocrites.
@Azhar - oh please , don't tell this to Indians
@SMI Great logic. Do everything possible to make it happen.
@Juna bazar: It might be a good idea to read the UN resolution yourself first! It will be a revelation for you! You actually invaded and occupied part of the Indian territory!
@Ali Because Ali says so.
@PACIFIST - "Only one country in the world would agree with Mattis. So this is clearly a minority view."
Not really. There are many countries besides US & India who are either opposed to OBOR or not keen to join it. Some of them are Japan, Australia & many EU nations. The only countries which have expressed an interest to join OBOR are either those in which China is investing heavily or those who export to China & have a big trade surplus with China.
The India's position vis-a-vis the disputed kashmir area ceded to China by Pakistan is vindicated by the US statement on the CPEC. More such adverse comments are in the offing. Pakistan can not hood wink the reality for long.
I just heard Hillary and she said the biggest mistake we made was to left Pakistan. We should have engaged with them. US is repeating the same mistake. Pakistan is too important for them.
@Tamilselvan : Wonderful. Totally agree with you..
The USA tells the truth about this situation...glad someone has the courage to speak up instead of living in denial...
@Zak -- Poor comprehension of the problem, as always!
US has said what it has to say through his Defense secretary. Now lets see what Pakistani government officials response will be. Get ready Pakistan, the next issue and topic will be to work on to de-nuclearise Pakistan
The USA is ensuring the everlasting hatred of a nuclear nation.
@SMI Agree with you brother
@Fareed N ,read the resolutions step by step first.
@Tamza well said.
@Dev Now apply that to your own country, which has a debt that is humongous.
@Zak zak bro have ever read the un resolution specially the first conditin.
@Ali really! Then why is it not with Pakistan.
@Wajahat those dams are built in accordance with the IWT. Why did you sign it then. Perhaps the treaty should be abrogated by India.
Good Job Mr. Mttis
Pakistan should treat this as an opportunity
@Dipak : What an ignorant statement.
Last time I checked the American built other dams (Eg. Mangla) in AJK, it wasn't disputed in those days. This is merely to counter Chinese influence and is nothing but sabre rattling. Nothing to worry about here. CPEC is a reality while his statement is devoid of reality.
@Zia : You have clearly described the situation. No one can hide the truth for long.
pakistan is a self respected nation .... even US can't overtake
@Fareed N.Brother as requested on many occasions in the past, please read and follow the U.N . regulations regarding Kashmir and then you will understand realise the actual problem.Respects.
@Ali r u serious ..can u prove
Hi! everyone I'm from northern area, i.e. Gilgit-Baltistan (GB) of Pakistan. Here a little bit explanation about this issue. GB is not the part of Kashmir or India or Pakistan, so India or any other country has no right to speak about it as disputed territory. It is an independent region liberated by its own people and GBians willingly associated the region with Pakistan, with a promise that Pakistani government will make it as constitutional province of Pakistan, but the promise was not fulfilled and the seventieth years of deprivation of right is now spending by GB nation. As for as CPEC is concerned, there will be no any problem for Gilgit-Baltistan, if and only if Pakistan resolve the constitutional right issue. We hope that Pakistan will make GB as own constitutional province as soon as possible before any uprising. Still now GBians are the most patriot of Pakistan.
The solution of CPEC issue is only possible, if Pakistan fulfill the demand of constitutional right from the people of Northern Area/Gilgit-Baltistan.
@AXH India is unique, we don't take dictations from any country, we will have relation with countries we want even if they have sanctions on them.
@Khalid Khan Please read the resolution for once.
@Amin S Arab Pakistan, read the resolution.
@Sam it simply means US animosity towards Muslims, specially towards Pakistan is amply exposed. Any idea how many Muslims it has killed on false pretext from Afghanistan to Zimbabwe?
Mathis says that "no one nation should put itself into a position of dictating One Belt, One Road."
Unless, of course, it is a road being built by the US.
@Keen Reader :Mr. "Keen Reader", the same kind of relationship that a certain country has with China!
Seems whole world is jealous of CPEC and Pakistan.
@Muhammad How long it will take to recognize the true face of US?
@Helloworld Then why Mr Nehru, the Prime Minister of India, agreed to hold plebecide to decide the Kashmir problem in the general assembly of the commonwelth?