The central government today informed the parliament that it has urged China to reverse its technical hold on India’s request to get Jaish-e-Mohammed chief Masood Azhar designated as terrorist by the UN.
In a written reply, Minister of State for External Affairs M J Akbar told the Rajya Sabha that China has often repeated its concern on spread of terrorism and their desire to cooperate with India on this issue.
On several occasions, China has reiterated with India their resolute opposition to terrorism in all its forms and manifestations with “zero tolerance”, and has agreed that there is no justification for terrorism.
“Government has consistently highlighted to China regarding the threat of cross border terrorism emanating from Pakistan and affecting the region, including India. Specifically, we have emphasised forcefully that while the Pakistan-based Jaish-e-Mohammed has been proscribed by the UNSC Sanctions Committee…for its well known terror activities and links to the Al Qaeda, the designation of JeM’s main leader, financier and motivator Azhar has been repeatedly put on a technical hold,” Akbar said.
“Accordingly, we have urged China to reverse its technical hold on India’s request to list Azhar under 1267 provisions. India’s request is co-sponsored by several prominent countries,” he added.
(With PTI inputs)
