New Delhi, Mar 17 (UNI) Chinese Ambassador to India Luo Zhaohui on Sunday here assured that the “temporary” hold by China against sanctioning of militant organisation Jaish-e-Mohammad chief Masood Azhar as “global terrorist” by United Nation Security Council (UNSC) will be resolved soon.
China, earlier this week, used its “veto” power to block the sanctions against Masood. The resolution to include Masood in UNSC 1267 list was approved by rest of the four members of UNSC--United States, United Kingdom, France and Russia.
Speaking to the media at the Chinese Embassy in National Capital during the ‘Holi Milan’ cultural event, Mr Luo said the “technical hold” would be resolved after further deliberations.
“Regarding Masood Azhar, we fully understand India's concern and are optimistic (that) this matter will be resolved. This is only a technical hold, which means there is time for continued consultations. It will be resolved, believe me,” the Chinese Envoy said.
With the “technical hold”, Chinese government has six months time to further decide on the matter. The time frame can be extended to further three months.
Referring to the Wuhan Summit between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping in 2018, Mr Zhaohui said that two-way consultations were on fast-track and that China was happy with the progress on the issues discussed.
Soon after the Pulwama terror attack on February 14 on CRPF convoy, which claimed lives of 44 jawans, Jaish-e-Mohammad took responsibility of gruesome attack. The US, UK and France sent a proposal under clause of 1267 in UNSC and Al Qaeda Sanctions Committee to tag Azhar a global terrorist.
The Holi Milan was organised jointly by the Chinese Embassy and the Confederation of Young Leaders, to celebrate the Festival of Colours- Holi.
UNI AKS PS RJ 2043