China interest in J&K grows

Beijing, May 2: China now has a “vested interest” in mediating between India and Pakistan to resolve the Kashmir issue because of its $50 billion investment in the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor that passes through Pakistan-occupied Kashmir, an article in a state-run daily has said.

The article in Global Times, a publication of the ruling Communist Party, indicated Beijing’s latent interest in playing a bigger role in the region.

Claiming that China had mediated between Myanmar and Bangladesh over the Rohingya refugees issue, the article said, “China has always adhered to the principle of non-interference in the internal affairs of other countries, but that doesn't mean Beijing can turn a deaf ear to the demands of Chinese enterprises in protecting their overseas investments.”

“Given the massive investment that China has made in countries along the One Belt, One Road, China now has a vested interest in helping resolve regional conflicts including the dispute over Kashmir between India and Pakistan,” it said.

China's recent mediation between Myanmar and Bangladesh over Rohingya issue shows the increased ability of Beijing in resolving conflicts beyond its borders to maintain regional stability, the article said.

“China has been at the centre of a regional power shift, thus the country now needs to learn how to act as a stabilising force and conflict mediator in the region,” it said.

There is so much to learn for China about how to play its role as a regional power at a time when the country is witnessing a boom in outbound direct investment, the article said.

“For instance, while China has the capability to resolve conflicts through mediation given its increased economic influence, the nation needs to be very prudent in dealing with other big powers, India included, in the region,” it said.