India Critiques Pakistan and China at UNGA, Emphasizing Territorial Integrity and Regional Stability
India’s External Affairs Minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar addressed the UN, condemning Pakistan and China for endangering regional sovereignty, notably through the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor. He attributed Pakistan’s economic decline to deliberate choices and criticized its reliance on terrorism.
In a significant address at the United Nations General Assembly, India’s External Affairs Minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar criticized both Pakistan and China for their actions that compromise the territorial integrity of neighboring countries. He emphasized the necessity of a more inclusive and representative UN system to effectively address global challenges. Minister Jaishankar specifically highlighted the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), a contentious project worth US$62 billion, which India asserts violates its sovereignty as it traverses the disputed Kashmir region. Jaishankar remarked, “Unviable projects raise debt levels. Any connectivity that clouds sovereignty and territorial integrity acquires strategic connotations, especially when it is not a shared endeavour.” He attributed Pakistan’s economic troubles to its own choices, asserting that while certain countries may suffer due to external factors, others like Pakistan actively engage in self-destructive policies leading to unfavorable outcomes. Reflecting on Pakistan’s situation, Jaishankar pointedly stated, “Countries get left behind due to circumstances beyond their control, but some make conscious choices with disastrous consequences. Unfortunately, the misdeeds affect others as well, especially the neighbourhood.” He further criticized Pakistan’s economic indicators, suggesting that its growth is better measured by its tendencies towards radicalization and terrorism than in traditional economic terms.
The comments made by Minister Jaishankar occurred within the contemporary geopolitical climate where regional tensions regarding territorial disputes have heightened, particularly involving India, Pakistan, and China. The China-Pakistan Economic Corridor is part of China’s broader Belt and Road Initiative focused on enhancing infrastructure and connectivity across Asia, although it is met with staunch opposition from India due to sovereignty concerns. Jaishankar’s references to the economic and systemic issues facing Pakistan are indicative of long-standing tensions in South Asia, where India has continuously called attention to the implications of Pakistan’s policies and actions on regional stability.
In conclusion, during his UNGA address, Subrahmanyam Jaishankar poignantly underscored the detrimental effects of external projects that compromise sovereignty, particularly through the lens of the CPEC initiative. His remarks served not only as a critique of the geopolitical maneuvers of Pakistan and China but also as a call for the international community to foster a more representative global governance framework that can effectively tackle pressing issues affecting nations worldwide. Jaishankar’s statements elucidate the complex interplay of regional politics and highlight India’s pivotal role in advocating for its national interests on an international platform.
Original Source: www.scmp.com
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