NEW YORK - Pakistan and China spoke with one voice against Indian brutalities in the occupied Kashmir Valley for killing scores of innocent men, women and children for no fault except that they are struggling for liberation of their territory.

This complete harmony of opinion was reflected in the meeting between the Pakistani Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif and Chinese Premier Li Keqiang when they met on the sidelines of the 71st session of the United Nations General Assembly here Wednesday morning.

Speaking in categorical terms, the Chinese Prime Minister declared that his country would stand by Pakistan. “We support Pakistan and would speak for Pakistan at every world forum.”

Forcefully arguing, the Chinese prime minister said Pakistan was a victim of terrorism shunning all propaganda by India, United States and some Western allies accusing Pakistan of harboring terrorism.

“We attach great importance with Pakistan’s position on Kashmir,” were the words of Premier Li without caring about the diplomatic norms. Not only this, he said China hoped that there would be better understanding of Pakistan’s position on Kashmir by the world community as well. “

Premier Li said it was China’s sincere desire that situation between India and Pakistan should not escalate, offering to play a constructive role as a mediator for improving otherwise very tense relations between two South Asian neighbours.

Premier Li expressed his gratitude to Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif for having invested huge resources for the safety and security of Chinese personnel in Pakistan, who are engaged in mega projects that form part of China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC).

Taking the floor during the meeting, Premier Sharif welcomed the sentiments that his Chinese counterpart had expressed on atrocities being committed by India against innocent Kashmiri people for their just cause.

Commenting on the historic Sino-Pak ties, Prime Minister Sharif declared the two countries as ‘iron brothers’. He said, “Our bilateral relations have transformed from political to economic ties and this change is a matter of great happiness for the people of Pakistan.”

The prime minister said: “We are eagerly awaiting the visit of the Chinese prime minister to Pakistan”. Expressing his satisfaction on the ever-growing Sino-Pak ties, he said the two sides would explore further arenas to work together in all fields.

He assured his Chinese counterpart that Pakistan was committed to the lasting peace and stability in the South Asian region. “We condemn terrorism in all its forms, manifestation and shades.”

He briefed the Chinese leader about the achievements during the Operation Zarb-e-Azb and said Pakistan had dismantled terrorist networks. He said peace with neighbors was his country’s vision.

Expressing his condolences on the loss of human lives in recent floods, Premier Nawaz said: “Whatever happens in China is a matter of great concern to every Pakistani”.

PAKISTAN RAISES KASHMIR ISSUE WITH EU

Foreign Secretary Aizaz Ahmad Chaudhry raised Pakistan’s serious concerns over the situation in Jammu & Kashmir with EU Secretary General for External Affairs Ms. Helga Schmid. The two met on Wednesday on the sidelines of the 71st UNGA session in New York.

The Foreign Secretary briefed his EU counterpart on the gross human rights violations committed by India against innocent Kashmiris that has resulted in the death of over 100 and injuries to 8,000 people.

The EU side noted Pakistan’s concerns and inquired about the current state of Pakistan-India relations.

EU appreciated Pakistan’s role in facilitating peace efforts in Afghanistan. 

EU Secretary General also briefed the Foreign Secretary on preparations for the upcoming Brussels Ministerial Conference on Afghanistan to be held in Brussels in October.