China Agrees With India on Terrorism, But No Word on Masood Azhar

“We expect China to see the logic of what we are saying (on terrorism)”, MEA spokesperson Vikas Swarup said.

Indian and Chinese delegates hold a bilateral meeting. (Photo Courtesy: Twitter/@MEAIndia)

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping on Saturday recognised terrorism as a “key issue”, MEA Spokesperson, Vikas Swarup has said after a meeting between the two leaders in Goa. But Beijing gave no assurance on supporting New Delhi's bid on a UN ban against Pakistan-based militant leader Masood Azhar:

Both sides recognised terrorism as a key issue. President Xi said we should strengthen our security dialogue and partnership. Modi said that both India and China had been victims of terrorism which was a scourge afflicting the entire region. We are maintaining continuous dialogue with China and expect China to see the logic of what we are saying.

Vikas Swarup, MEA Spokesperson

Asked about China blocking the Indian effort to have Azhar banned, Swarup said it was up to China to consider the move that will safeguard not only the region but the entire world from terrorism.

The Chinese side is very well aware of our concerns, and the need for us to ensure that globally notified terrorists are designated by the UN.

Vikas Swarup, MEA Spokesperson

The spokesperson said that the Modi and Xi also had a “brief discussion on” India's prospects of joining the Nuclear Suppliers Group (NSG).

“PM Modi said we look forward to working with China to realise India's membership of the NSG,” he said.

Swarup said that one round of dialogue has already been held on this issue and the second would be conducted soon.

This apart, Modi and Xi agreed that bilateral investment and economic cooperation has increased.

(With inputs from IANS and ANI)