China assists Pakistan on UNSC Pahalgam statement, diluting the council’s denunciation of the deadly terror attack. Although the UNSC did denounce the attack that killed 26 civilians in Kashmir’s Pahalgam area, the ultimate statement was visibly milder.Reports indicate that Pakistan, supported by China, shaped main revisions, eliminating robust allusions that accommodated India. This development comes at a delicate time when India is trying to mend diplomatic ties with Beijing, raising fresh concerns for New Delhi’s global strategy.
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Pahalgam Attack and UNSC’s Softer ResponseThe terrorist attack stunned the world, killing 26 innocent people. In its aftermath, the UNSC made a statement denouncing the “reprehensible act of terrorism.” But in contrast to the statement made after the Pulwama attack in 2019, the new statement did not specifically demand cooperation with the “Government of India.” It spoke vaguely of “all relevant authorities.” This was a significant change. In the Pulwama attack, the UNSC had clearly stood with India. This time, however, that same strong support was not there.
Pakistan’s Role and China’s Quiet SupportAs per reports, Pakistan asked China to assist it in keeping the UNSC statement neutral. Pakistan, as a non-permanent member of the UNSC currently, co-sponsored the diluted statement after negotiations. The final draft was negotiated intensely, particularly by the United States. But China’s tacit support enabled Pakistan to veto stronger language that would have been more in India’s favor. Pakistan’s own release also indicated its position. Rather than condemning the attack, Islamabad only expressed “concern,” going out of its way to avoid strong language.
Possible Motive Behind the DilutionPakistan probably did not want to mention the Indian government in a statement, fearing it would give New Delhi the upper hand in conducting the investigation. Therefore, Islamabad has been insisting on an “independent” investigation. Even Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif stated he is willing to accept a “neutral and transparent” probe. By silencing UNSC’s backing for India, Pakistan wants to maintain international narratives divided.
Implications for India and Regional DiplomacyChina’s indirect assistance to Pakistan creates grave diplomatic issues for India. In spite of attempts to defuse tensions with Beijing, this action demonstrates that China remains aligned with Pakistan on sensitive matters. Further, the change in the UNSC terminology establishes a disconcerting precedent. It indicates how Pakistan, with Chinese assistance, can use global institutions to undermine India’s position. India now has to walk through a more challenging diplomatic environment, managing short-term responses and long-term strategic re-alignment.