From K J M Varma
Beijing:China today voiced concern over the “escalation” of violence and “rising temperatures” in Kashmir after the Uri terror attack and called on India and Pakistan to resolve their differences through dialogue and enhance counter-terrorism cooperation.

Expressing shock over yesterday’s terror attack on an army camp in Uri, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Lu Kang said, “We want to express our deep sympathies and condolences to the affected families and the injured.”

“We have noted relevant reports. We are shocked by this attack,” Lu told media briefing here when asked about India’s allegation that Pakistan-based militant group Jaish-e- Muhammad’s involvement in the attack.

“China opposes and strongly condemns all forms of terrorism. We are concerned about this escalation and rising temperatures surrounding Kashmir situation,” he said.

“We hope relevant parties will have dialogue and consultation to resolve their differences and enhance counter terrorism cooperation. Only this way can they safeguard peace and security in their region,” he said.

Asked how China sees the impact of the escalation of violence on its USD 46 billion China-Pakistan Economic Corridor, Lu said, “The building of the corridor is to drive the development of the regional countries. It needs the concerted efforts of all countries concerned to ensure the smooth running of this corridor.”

“At the same time I need to stress that recently in this region especially in Kashmir region, there has been some escalation of tensions,” he said.

“Our position is that we hope all relevant parties can work together and remain committed to resolving these disputes through peaceful consultations and jointly maintain the peace and stability of the region. This in final analysis is conducive and will bring benefits to China, India Pakistan and all the regional countries,” he said.

PTI