Insisting that China's Belt and Road is an open and inclusive initiative and is not directed at any third parties, Beijing on Tuesday said the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor is an economic project with no implications on the Kashmir issue.
"Regarding the issue of Kashmir which the Indian side is concerned about, we have been stressing that the Belt and Road is a cooperation initiative for the common development and prosperity of the region. The China-Pakistan Economic Corridor, as an important part of the Belt and Road, is not directed at any third parties not relevant to disputes over territorial sovereignty and does not affect China's position on the Kashmir issue," Chinese Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Hua Chunying said in a press briefing.
"We keep saying that the Belt and Road is an open and inclusive initiative. We welcome participation from all countries to share the development opportunities," he added.
Responding to India's demand for a meaningful dialogue on the CPEC issues, Chunying said, "China's position is upright and clear. China's attitude is honest and sincere. We welcome India's participation in the Belt and Road Initiative."
He said that the Belt and Road Initiative has been following the principle of joint consultation, extensive participation and shared benefits.
"China's purpose is crystal-clear and on the table for all to see," Chunying added.
On Saturday,External Affairs spokesperson Gopal Bagla issued a strongly-worded statement regarding One Belt One Road summit "We are of the firm belief that connectivity initiatives must be based on universally recognised international norms, good governance, rule of law, openness, transparency and equality.