In a sharp reaction to a question about India’s characterisation of Pakistan at the BRICS Summit in Goa, China said it did not support the idea of linking any country with terrorism.
Defending its sole ally a day after PM Narendra Modi called Pakistan a “mothership of terrorism”, the Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Hua Chunying on October 17 said it opposed connecting any country or religion with terror.
Replying to a query on Modi’s criticism of Islamabad in aiding terror groups, she said China’s position is pursuant on counter-terrorism.
Though China opposes terrorism in all forms, she said linking any particular country with terrorism was against its position.
The global efforts are needed to ensure the stability and security of any/all country/countries, she said.
Stating that China and Pakistan were “all-weather” friends, China said both India and Pakistan are victims of terrorism. She added Islamabad has made “a great sacrifice” to combat terrorism and the same must be recognised by the world.
To a query whether Pakistan supports anti-India terrorist groups by giving them arms, funds and helps them to cross the international border and whether in China’s view the world should take note of this, the spokesperson said, “I understand your concern.”
“Chinese position is consistent. We will not link terrorism with any specific country or religion,” she said.
“As per the problem between India and Pakistan, China hopes they can resolve the disputes in a peaceful manner through dialogue. This serves the interest of the two countries and the region as a whole,” she added.
