Upset over the reference to the Indo-Pak ties in US-China statement, India today made it clear that it will not brook any third party role in bilateral matters even as the US sought to give a positive spin to it.
“A third country role cannot be envisaged nor is it necessary,” External Affairs Ministry Spokesman said in a terse comment on the joint statement issued on the conclusion of talks between US President Barack Obama and his Chinese counterpart Hu Jintao.
Seeking to downplay any Indian concern over the Obama-Hu statement, US Ambassador to India Timothy J Roemer said, “I think that is a very positive statement to make.”
The US and China have only said that they would work for more peace and stability in South Asia, Roemer said.
External affairs ministry said, “The Government of India is committed to resolving all outstanding issues with Pakistan through a peaceful bilateral dialogue in accordance with the Simla Agreement.”
The Indian reaction came a day after both Obama and Hu voiced support for the improvement in Indo-Pak ties and their readiness to promote peace and stability in the region, listing the situation in South Asia among regional and global challenges.
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External affairs ministry spokesman further said, “....We also believe that a meaningful dialogue with Pakistan can take place only in an environment free from terror or the threat of terror.”
The US-China joint statement said the two countries “support the improvement and growth of relations between India and Pakistan,” and are ready to “strengthen communication, dialogue and cooperation on issues related to South Asia and work together to promote peace, stability and development in that region.”
Roemer added that the US was “trying to make sure there is a prosperous and peaceful rise of China” and “at the same time have historic close relations between the United States and India.”