China keen to know India's response on Pakistan's offer
China is keen to know India's response on Pakistan's $46 billion economic corridor.
"I wonder what is India's take on this whether this is a good sign from Pakistan," Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Hua Chunying said when asked about Pakistan Southern Command Commander Lt Gen Amir Riaz's remarks that India should join the CPEC along with Iran, Afghanistan and other Central Asian countries and enjoy its benefits.
"On China's part, the CEPC is a cooperation framework and we hope this programme can not only serve the interest of Pakistan but also Asia and the region as a whole," Ms Hua said.
According to her, CEPC is a significant part of China's One-Belt and One-Road (OBOR) also known as new Silk Road project.
"It is an open proposal and we are willing to work with Pakistan to discuss the participation of any third country under principle of wider consultation and joint contribution," she said.
When asked whether Pakistan had any discussions with China, she said, "as (whether) China has negotiated with Pakistan on this, I have nothing to offer".
"I can tell you that this programme is very important part of OBOR initiative and China holds an open attitude for such cooperation. We have seen reports about other countries who are willing to join the programme. We want to discuss this with wider consultants and consensus," she said.
