Masood Azhar: In a Move Against China, India Plays Uighur Card

Masood Azhar, chief of the Jaish-e-Mohammad. (Photo: Reuters)

When India pressed China to explain why the latter blocked India’s bid to designate JeM chief and Pathankot terror attack mastermind Masood Azhar a global terrorist, China responded by saying that India should consult with Pakistan.

Speaking to the Times of India, Liu Jinsong, charge d’affaires in the Chinese embassy in New Delhi reiterated China’s position.

China is against all forms of terrorism. We have put a technical hold, not a veto. It is not an issue between China and India. We would prefer that you talk to Pakistan.

Liu Jinsong

In a meeting between Indian officials and their Chinese counterparts in Beijing, New York and New Delhi, India tried to draw China out on its reasons.

China has continued to justify its action.

Both China and India fall victim to terrorism and share similar positions when it comes to combating terrorism.

Chinese Foreign Ministry

India however, has a few cards of its own to play. A group from the Washington-based World Uighur Congress will visit Dalai Lama in Dharamsala for an inter-faith dialogue organised by the leader.

India had denied a visit by Rebiya Kadeer, Uighur leader in 2009.

India in unclear on how many other terror leaders who it wants to see listed as terrorists by the UNSC’s 1267 committee will be blocked by China.

The next round of discussions between between the two nations are liable to be focused around these very concerns.

NSA Ajit Doval is expected to engage in a strategic dialogue with state councillor Yang Jiechi in Beijing later this week, where the issue will be raised again.

This dialogue comes after almost a year, which is unusual. Doval cancelled his last meeting because of the Pathankot attack.