Chinese envoy plays down remarks on Kashmir

New Delhi, Oct 21 (ANI): Chinese Ambassador to India, Zhang Yan, on Wednesday dismissed concerns over comments made by his country's foreign ministry with regard to Kashmir.

"China is committed to advancing its relationship with India in a cooperative and mutually beneficial way," Yan said.

On Tuesday, Beijing virtually sang Pakistan's tune on Kashmir.

In a regular press briefing Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Ma Zhaoxu called Kashmir an issue left over by history that should be resolved properly through dialogue and consultation between India and Pakistan.

"Kashmir issue is a question left over by history that should be resolved properly through consultation and dialogue by India and Pakistan," said Zhaoxu.

Zhaoxu's statement came ahead of China's Foreign Minister Yang Jiechi's visit to India.

Jiechi would attend the meeting of India, Russia and China Foreign Ministers at Bangalore on October 27.

During the visit, Jiechi is expected to hold talks with his Indian counterpart, S M Krishna.

The meeting would pave way for both foreign ministers to exchange views on bilateral ties and regional and international issues of common concern in an extensive way. (ANI)