BEIJING (DNA) – China on Wednesday reiterated that its position on the Kashmir issue was clear and consistent that it should be properly resolved through negotiations by the relevant parties.

The approval of listing of Masood Azhar had nothing to do with the Kashmir issue and would not affect China’s position on the longstanding dispute, Chinese Foreign Ministry’s spokesperson Geng Shuang said in response to a question asked.

“China’s position on the Kashmir issue is clear-cut and consistent. This is an issue left over from the past between India and Pakistan and should be properly resolved through consultation and negotiation by relevant parties,” the spokesman said.

He said Pakistan had made enormous contributions to fighting terrorism, which deserved the full recognition of the international community.

“China will continue firmly support Pakistan’s efforts to combat terrorist and extremist forces,” he added.

The spokesperson remarked that the 1267 Committee of the United Nations Security Council had detailed criteria for the listing procedures.

“China always believes that the relevant work should be carried out in an objective, unbiased and professional manner and based on solid evidence and consensus among all parties,” he added.

Geng Shaung said on the listing issue, China had been communicating with relevant parties in a constructive and responsible fashion.

He said recently, relevant countries revised and re-submitted the materials for the listing proposal to the 1267 Committee.

After careful study of the revised materials and taking into consideration the opinions of parties concerned, China did not have objection to the listing proposal.

The spokesperson said,”The proper settlement of the above-mentioned issue again shows that in international counter-terrorism cooperation, we have to uphold the rules and procedures of relevant UN body, follow the principle of mutual respect, resolve differences and build consensus through dialogue, and prevent politicizing technical issues.”