BEIJING: India should join the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) to reap economic benefits, the Chinese state media said on Friday.
The advice from Chinese state media came close on the heels of Indian foreign secretary S Jaishankar making it clear in the just-concluded strategic dialogue that India has “sovereignty” issues with the corridor (CPEC) passing through Azad Kashmir.
Many observers consider the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) an important opportunity, not only for the potential economic benefits it brings to China and Pakistan, but also because it allows greater cooperation among nations in the region. Yet, it has made neighboring India apprehensive.
Indian Foreign Secretary S Jaishankar on Wednesday accused the economic corridor of violating India’s sovereignty as it runs through Azad Kashmir. He also said China must explain how India, “whose sovereignty has been violated,” can take part in the Belt and Road summit in May in Beijing.
India should not view Pakistan’s development as a threat. As long as India is willing to, China, Pakistan and India could cooperate to tap the vast economic potential in the Kashmir region. It’s estimated that the CPEC could pave the way for about 1 million new jobs and could attract a strong influx of foreign direct investment (FDI) into the region. India should seize the opportunity to allay misunderstandings with Pakistan through economic cooperation, The Chinese Tabloid “Global Times” said in an article.
By joining the CPEC, India will not only benefit economically, but could also make itself a pioneer in regional economic integration to better fulfill its ambition of becoming an influential regional economic power. China and Pakistan have frequently invited India to the CPEC, and we hope India responds to the call, the newspaper said.