On May 26, 2026, India expressed strong disapproval of the "unwarranted references" made to the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir in a joint statement issued by China and Pakistan. This statement followed a meeting between Chinese President Xi Jinping and Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif in Beijing, where discussions included the contentious China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC). The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) spokesperson, Randhir Jaiswal, reiterated India's position, firmly stating that Jammu and Kashmir, along with Ladakh, are integral and inalienable parts of India.
India's response highlights its long-standing assertion that no other nation has the authority to comment on its internal matters. Jaiswal's statement emphasized, "India categorically rejects unwarranted references to the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir in the Joint Statement between China and Pakistan." The MEA has consistently maintained that any foreign commentary on this issue is both inappropriate and unacceptable.
- Rejection of CPEC — India opposes the CPEC, viewing it as a violation of its territorial integrity, as parts of the corridor lie within India's sovereign territory.
- Concerns Over Water Resources Cooperation — India has also rejected the notion of trans-boundary water resources cooperation mentioned in the joint statement, emphasizing that China and Pakistan do not share a boundary.
- Historical Context — India's stance is rooted in historical claims and international law regarding Jammu and Kashmir's status.
The joint statement's mention of the CPEC as a flagship project of China's One Belt One Road initiative has raised alarms in New Delhi, as India views it as an encroachment on its sovereignty. Jaiswal further stated, "We resolutely oppose and reject any moves by other countries to reinforce or legitimize Pakistan's illegal and forcible occupation of these territories." This sentiment reflects India’s broader strategy to safeguard its territorial claims and maintain regional stability.
In conclusion, India's response to the joint statement serves as a reminder of its unwavering commitment to protecting its sovereignty. The government has repeatedly conveyed its position to both Pakistani and Chinese authorities, asserting that Jammu and Kashmir remains an integral part of India. The ongoing tensions between these nations underscore the complex geopolitical landscape in South Asia, requiring careful diplomacy and strategic engagement.
