India-Russia Joint Statement during Visit of the …...International North-South Transport Corridor (INSTC) through intensified efforts by finalizing pending issues related to Customs

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DOCUMENTS

Document: 1

India-Russia Joint Statement during Visit of the President of

Russia to India, India-Russia: An Enduring Partnership in a

Changing World, New Delhi, India, October 5, 2018.

rime Minister of the Republic of India H.E. Mr. Narendra Modi and

President of the Russian Federation H.E. Mr. Vladimir V. Putin met

for the 19th edition of the Annual Bilateral Summit in New Delhi on

October 4-5, 2018. India-Russia cooperation is based on the solid

foundations of the 1971 Treaty of Peace, Friendship and Cooperation

between the Republic of India and the USSR, 1993 Treaty of Friendship

and Cooperation between the Republic of India and the Russian

Federation, 2000 Declaration on Strategic Partnership between the

Republic of India and the Russian Federation and 2010 Joint Statement

elevating the Partnership to a Special and Privileged Strategic Partnership.

Cooperation between India and Russia spans across the whole gamut of

sectors and rests on the fundamental pillars of political and strategic

cooperation, military and security cooperation, cooperation in the spheres

of economy, energy, industry, science and technology, and cultural and

humanitarian cooperation.

India and Russia highly evaluated the contemporary relevance and

significance of the informal summit in Sochi on May 21, 2018 which was a

unique meeting in international diplomacy, reflecting the deep trust and

confidence between Prime Minister Modi and President Putin, underlining

the desire of both countries to maintain regular contacts and hold frequent

consultations on issues of mutual interest, and further enhanced mutual

coordination and convergence of views on all major issues. The Sochi

Summit manifested the role of interaction and cooperation between India

and Russia in building a multi-polar world order. The two Sides agreed to

continue the practice of such informal meetings and to maintain strategic

communication at all levels on a regular basis.

The Sides reaffirmed their commitment to the Special and

Privileged Strategic Partnership between India and Russia. They declared

that this relationship is an important factor for global peace and stability

and appreciated each other’s respective roles as major powers with

common responsibilities for maintaining global peace and stability.

Both Sides agreed that their relationship is mature and confident,

covering all areas and is marked by deep trust, mutual respect and close

understanding of each other’s position. They reaffirmed that being

multicultural, multilingual and multi-religious societies, India and Russia

bring civilizational wisdom to address modern day challenges. Together,

they contribute to creating a more interconnected and diverse world.

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The Sides called upon all states to work towards the lessening of

global tensions and promoting the ideals of tolerance, cooperation,

transparency and openness in inter-state relations. They stressed that the

primary challenge in large parts of the world remains ensuring rapid and

environmentally sustainable economic development, removal of poverty,

reducing inequality among and within states, and providing basic health

care. India and Russia pledged to cooperate with each other to achieve

these goals.

The Sides noted with satisfaction the intensification of contacts

between the two countries, in all spheres – more than 50 visits at

ministerial level, which have injected new vigour into their relationship.

Subsequent to the successful implementation of the Protocol on Foreign

Office Consultations for the period 2017-18, the Sides agreed to extend the

period of Consultations for five more years (2019-2023) and signed a

Protocol to this effect. Russia welcomed the appointment of Honorary

Consuls General of India in Ekaterinburg and Astrakhan, which would

further facilitate closer interaction amongst people and regions of both

Sides.

The Sides welcomed the agreements reached in November 2017

between their concerned authorities, for cooperation on internal security,

drug trafficking and disaster management, including the Joint Action Plan

between the Narcotics Control Bureau, Ministry of Home Affairs of the

Republic of India and the Ministry of Interior of the Russian Federation for

the period of 2018-2020. The Indian Side acknowledged the Russian Side’s

technical expertise in the field of disaster management and agreed to

explore cooperation, including through training of trainers and

development of emergency response structures.

The Sides noted that the successful conclusion of the 70th

anniversary celebrations of the establishment of diplomatic relations

between India and Russia witnessed enthusiastic response among people

of both countries and further consolidated people-to-people ties. The Sides

are satisfied with the implementation of the Cultural Exchange

Programme for 2017-2019 signed in 2017. They welcomed annual Russian

Festivals in India and Indian Festivals in Russia and highly appreciated the

ongoing youth exchange programme, exchange of writers and reciprocal

support of the National Film Festivals. The Sides welcomed mutual growth

in tourism flows in the last two years, and agreed to facilitate this positive

trend. India complimented Russia for successful organization of the 2018

FIFA World Cup. The Sides recognized the immense contribution made by

the Institute of Oriental Studies of the Russian Academy of Sciences, to the

promotion of India-Russia relations over several decades. Prime Minister

Modi underlined that India would contribute to the success of the 200 year

celebrations of the foundation of the Institute.

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Economy

The Sides welcomed the outcomes of the 23rd meeting, co-chaired

by Deputy Prime Minister of the Russian Federation Yuri I. Borisov and

Minister of External Affairs of the Republic of India Sushma Swaraj, of the

India – Russia Intergovernmental Commission on Trade, Economy,

Science, Technology and Cultural Cooperation, held in Moscow on

September 14, 2018.

The Sides reviewed the progress on the achievement of the goal to

increase two-way investment to USD 30 billion by the year 2025 and noted

with satisfaction that both countries were on the way to achieving this

target. They noted that in 2017 bilateral trade increased by more than

20% and agreed to work towards its further increase and diversification.

The Sides expressed their support to promoting bilateral trade in national

currencies.

The Sides noted that the first meeting of the Strategic Economic

Dialogue between NITI Aayog of India and the Ministry of Economic

Development of the Russian Federation would be held later in 2018 in

Russia.

The Sides welcomed the start of consultations on the Free Trade

Agreement between the Eurasian Economic Union and its member states,

on one side, and the Republic of India – on the other, and supported the

idea to expedite the negotiation process.

The Sides appreciated the Joint Study commissioned to work out a

Joint Strategy of Action for the development of trade and economic

relations and investment cooperation and noted that, to take this forward,

the Sides have nominated, respectively, the Indian Institute of Foreign

Trade and the All-Russian Academy of Foreign Trade.

The Sides appreciated the work done by "Invest India’’ to facilitate

Russian investors in India and the planned launch of a "Single Window

Service” by the Ministry of Economic Development of the Russian

Federation for facilitating operation of Indian companies in Russia.

The Sides welcomed the holding of the India-Russia Business

Summit on the margins of the 19th Annual Summit on October 4-5, 2018

in New-Delhi with the participation of large business delegations from

both sides, representing important areas of bilateral cooperation, sending

a strong signal of the willingness and capacity of the business sectors of

both countries to further strengthen economic, trade and investment

partnerships.

The Sides reviewed progress in the implementation of Priority

Investment Projects in the spheres of mining, metallurgy, power, oil & gas,

railways, pharmaceuticals, Information Technology, chemicals,

infrastructure, automobile, aviation, space, shipbuilding and

manufacturing of different equipment. The Sides welcomed the

establishment of a pharmaceutical plant by Advance Pharma Company in

Russia. The Indian Side conveyed its intention to increase import of


fertilizers from Russia. The Sides noted the importance of expansion of

collaboration in the aluminum sector.

They welcomed the signing of the MoU between National Small

Industries Corporation of India and the Russian Small and Medium

Business Corporation.

The Sides emphasized that infrastructure development is an

important national priority for both countries offering immense

opportunities for cooperation. The Indian Side invited Russian companies

to participate in the development of industrial corridors in India, including

in areas of road and rail infrastructure, smart cities, construction of

wagons and creation of a joint transportation logistics company.

The Russian Side offered its expertise in tax collection based on

satellite navigation technologies for the realization of joint projects in

India including in the framework of above mentioned industrial corridors.

The Russian Side expressed its interest in participating in the

international competitive biddings as and when the Ministry of Railways

of India decides to execute the railway speed raising projects.

The Sides noted the importance of cooperation in the area of

transport education, personnel training and scientific support in the

implementation of international transport corridors. For these purposes

the Sides maintain cooperation between the National Rail and

Transportation Institute (Vadodara) of the Republic of India and the

Russian University of Transport (MIIT).

The Sides underscored the vital importance of increasing

connectivity between them. They called for the development of the

International North-South Transport Corridor (INSTC) through intensified

efforts by finalizing pending issues related to Customs authorities,

development of road and rail infrastructure and financial facilitation

through bilateral discussions as well as discussions with other partner

countries at the earliest. The Sides welcomed the proposed trilateral

meeting between the Republic of India, the Russian Federation and the

Islamic Republic of Iran on the sidelines of "Transport Week - 2018” in

Moscow, on the issue of Indian goods transportation through the territory

of Iran to Russia. The Indian Side informed the Russian Side of its

accession to the Customs Convention on International Transport of Goods

under cover of TIR Carnets. The Sides agreed to make efforts to convene

the INSTC Ministerial and Coordination meeting on priority.

In order to promote trade, the Sides agreed to mutually share on

best endeavour basis the mandatory inspections/regulations requirement

to be fulfilled at the time of exporting/importing of any product so that

any delay related to such inspection could be reduced.

The Sides agreed to share the list of their trade exhibitions and

fairs as well as of institutions/export promotion councils and other export

related institutions from where one can get the details of

exporters/importers from both sides to facilitate their interaction.

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The Sides supported the early launch of the Green Corridor project

aimed at the simplification of customs operations in respect of goods being

transported between India and Russia. They regarded this as an important

step towards enhancing mutual trade. After the start of the project

Customs administrations of both countries will be committed to its further

expansion.

The Sides appreciated the efforts to further cement and

institutionalize cooperation between Indian States and Russian Regions.

To carry forward the momentum of cooperation between the States and

Union Territories of the Republic of India and Subjects of the Russian

Federation, both Sides directed further intensification of direct contacts

between business, entrepreneurs and governmental bodies on both sides.

The Sides welcomed further efforts aimed at signing of agreements

between Assam and Sakhalin, Haryana and Bashkortostan, Goa and

Kaliningrad, Odisha and Irkutsk, Visakhapatnam and Vladivostok. The

Sides agreed to encourage participation by regional delegations in major

events like Saint Petersburg International Economic Forum, Eastern

Economic Forum and Partnership/Investment Summits and also

welcomed the intention to organize and hold the India-Russia

interregional forum.

The Sides agreed to work together to explore joint projects for

productive, efficient and economic use of natural resources in each other’s

country through application of appropriate technologies while ensuring

affordable environment friendly utilization of natural resources.

The Sides acknowledged the agriculture sector as an important

area for cooperation and committed themselves to eliminating trade

barriers, greater production and trade in agricultural products.

The Sides praised the level of cooperation achieved in diamond

sector, including the signing of new long-term contracts for rough

diamond supplies by PJSC ALROSA to Indian companies, opening of the

ALROSA representative office in Mumbai and joint financing by the

ALROSA and the Gem & Jewellery Export Promotion Council of India of the

International Diamonds Producers Association on the development of

programmes of generic marketing of diamonds, including in the Indian

market. Both Sides noted recent investments by Indian companies in the

diamond manufacturing in the Russian Far East.

The Sides agreed to explore opportunities of joint collaboration in

precious metals, minerals, natural resources and forest produce, including

timber, through joint investments, production, processing and skilled

labour.

The Russian Side invited the Indian Side to invest in the Russian

Far East. The Indian Side welcomed the decision to open an office of the

Far East Agency in Mumbai. The Indian delegation, which was led by the

Minister for Commerce & Industry, and Civil Aviation Suresh Prabhu,

participated in the Eastern Economic Forum in Vladivostok in September


2018. A high level Russian delegation would visit India to organize

investment road-shows and promote greater Indian investments in the Far

East.

The Sides agreed to actively promote joint projects in third

countries in sectors such as railways, energy and others where there is a

complementarity between them in terms of technology and resources.

Science and Technology

The Sides noted the necessity to further intensify cooperation in

the Science and Technology sector and welcomed the successful conduct

of the 10th Indian-Russian Working Group on Science and Technology,

which is jointly supervised by the Department of Science and Technology

of India and the Ministry of Science and Higher Education of the Russian

Federation, in February 2018.

The Sides noted the successful collaboration between the

Department of Science and Technology of India and the Russian

Foundation for Basic Research which celebrated their 10th anniversary of

joint research in the field of Basic and Applied Sciences in June 2017. The

Sides also recognized with satisfaction the collaboration between the

Department of Science and Technology of India and the Russian Science

Foundation. Both Sides agreed to revive cooperation under the Integrated

Long Term Programme for cooperation in the field of Science, Technology

and Innovations between the Government of the Republic of India and the

Government of the Russian Federation by drawing up a roadmap for

further cooperation between different Laboratories, Academia,

Universities, Institutions and Organizations in scientific and technology

areas of mutual priority.

The Sides agreed to further enhance their cooperation in the field

of Information and Communications Technology, particularly in

Electronics System Design & Manufacturing, Software development,

Supercomputing, E-Government, Public Services Delivery, Network

Security, Security in the use of Information and Communication

Technologies, Fin-tech, Internet of Things, standardization, radio control

and regulation of radio frequency spectrum. The Sides resolved to

continue mutual support and synergies at various platforms including

BRICS and ITU.

The Sides welcomed the signing of the Joint Declaration – "India-

Russia Economic Cooperation: The Way Forward” by Minister of

Commerce and Industry of India Suresh Prabhu and Minister of Economic

Development of the Russian Federation Maxim Oreshkin in March 2018 in

New Delhi. They highly appreciated the decision to hold the first ever

India-Russia Start-Up Summit in December 2018 by the Confederation of

Indian Industries and Skolkovo Foundation. They welcomed the idea to

launch an online portal that would enable startups, investors, incubators

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and aspiring entrepreneurs of both countries to interact and provide

relevant resources to expand and enable globalization of start-ups.

The Sides stressed the importance of the longstanding and

mutually beneficial India-Russia cooperation in outer space and welcomed

the activity on setting up measurement data collection ground stations of

the Indian Regional Navigation Satellite System NavIC and the Russian

Navigation Satellite System GLONASS in the territory of the Russian

Federation and the Republic of India respectively. The Sides agreed to

further intensify cooperation in the field of exploration and use of outer

space for peaceful purposes, including human spaceflight programmes,

scientific projects, as well as agreed to continue developing cooperation on

BRICS remote sensing satellite constellation.

The Sides expressed interest in the development of mutually

beneficial cooperation in the Arctic, inter alia in the sphere of joint

scientific research. The Sides noted with satisfaction the longstanding

cooperation of Indian and Russian scientists in the Antarctic.

The Sides noted the expansion of linkages between higher

education institutions of two countries that became possible thanks to the

activities of the India-Russia Network of Universities, which has already

met thrice since its establishment in 2015, and whose total membership

has reached 42. The Sides noted the great interest in academic exchanges

of teachers and students, as well as in working on joint scientific and

educational projects.

Energy

The Sides noted the importance of further widening of energy

cooperation between India and Russia taking into account the Indian

Side’s interest in Russian energy assets, including natural gas, as well as in

implementation of prospective joint projects in the field of renewable

energy sources.

The Sides acknowledged the potential for mutually beneficial

cooperation in the energy sector, and encouraged their companies to

consider a wide range of opportunities for cooperation, including long-

term contracts, joint ventures and acquisitions of energy assets in both

countries as well as possible cooperation in third countries.

The Sides welcomed the ongoing cooperation between the Russian

and Indian energy companies, including investments of Indian consortium

in Vankorneft and Taas-Yuryakh Neftegazodobycha in Russia and the

participation of the PJSC Rosneft oil company in the Essar Oil capital. The

Sides noted with satisfaction the progress made by the companies in the

development of comprehensive cooperation and expressed the hope for

the completion of negotiations on the Vankor cluster at an early date.

The Sides acknowledged the interest of Russian and Indian

companies in cooperation in the field of LNG and welcomed the


commencement of supply of LNG under the long-term contract between

Gazrpom Group and GAIL India Ltd.

The Sides expressed their support for continuing the expansion of

the dialogue between PJSC NOVATEK and the energy companies of India

and welcomed the joint intention to develop cooperation in the field of

LNG.

The Sides expressed their support to companies from both sides

for development of cooperation and exploring opportunities for joint

development of oil fields in the Russian territory, including in the Arctic

shelf of Russia and joint development of projects on the shelf of the

Pechora and Okhotsk Seas.

Welcoming the joint-study conducted in 2017 on the gas pipeline

supply routes from Russia and other countries to India, both Sides noted

the ongoing consultations between the Indian and Russian ministries and

companies to explore possibilities of constructing the gas pipeline to India

and agreed to continue to consult each other on the possible conclusion of

the Memorandum of Understanding between the two Ministries.

Civil nuclear cooperation between India and Russia is an important

component of strategic partnership contributing to India’s energy-security

and its commitments under the Paris Agreement on Climate Change. The

Sides noted the progress achieved in the construction of the remainder of

the six power units at Kudankulam NPP as well as the efforts being made

in the components manufacturing for localization. The Sides welcomed

consultations on the new Russian designed NPP in India, as well as on the

NPP equipment joint manufacturing of nuclear equipment; cooperation in

third countries

The Sides highlighted the progress achieved in fulfillment of the

agreements envisaged in the Memorandum of Understanding on trilateral

cooperation in implementation of the Rooppur Nuclear Power Project in

Bangladesh. The sides expressed satisfaction over signing of the Action

Plan for Prioritization and Implementation of Cooperation Areas in the

Nuclear Field Identified Jointly.

The Sides also decided to further explore possibilities of closer

cooperation on hydel and renewable energy sources, energy efficiency,

including in order to reduce the negative effects of climate change.

Military-Technical Cooperation

The Sides noted that Military and Military-Technical cooperation

between the two countries is an important pillar of their strategic

partnership. They welcomed the forthcoming meeting of the Indian-

Russian Intergovernmental Commission on Military-Technical cooperation

to be held in December 2018. The Roadmap for Military Cooperation has

paved way for greater interaction between the militaries of both countries,

including in training, exchange of senior functionaries of the militaries,

Staff talks and Exercises. The Russian Side positively evaluated the Indian

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participation in the Army Games 2018, Army 2018 and Moscow

Conference on International Security. Both Sides commended the

successful completion of the first ever Tri-Services Exercise INDRA 2017

and committed to continue their Joint Military Exercises – INDRA Navy,

INDRA Army and Avia INDRA – in 2018.

The Sides welcomed the conclusion of the contract for the supply

of the S-400 Long Range Surface to Air Missile System to India.

The Sides reaffirmed their commitment to enhance military

technical cooperation between India and Russia, which has a long history

of mutual trust and mutual benefit. Both Sides expressed satisfaction at

the significant progress made on the ongoing projects of military technical

cooperation and recognized the positive shift towards joint research and

joint production of military technical equipment between the two

countries. They highly evaluated the Military Industrial Conference

process as an important mechanism to promote the "Make in India” policy

of the Government of India.

The Sides positively evaluated the meeting of the High-Level

Committee on Cooperation in High Technologies set up in November 2017

that identified concrete projects in areas of mutual interest for joint

research and development.

International Issues

The sides affirmed "equality, mutual respect and non-interference

as universally acknowledged norms of international law as reflected in the

United Nations Charter and the 1970 Declaration on principles of

international law concerning friendly relations and co-operation among

states in accordance with the UN Charter.”

The Sides, mentioning the results of the 10th anniversary BRICS

Summit in South Africa in July 2018, acknowledged the intention of India

and Russia to continue productive interaction in order to enhance

strategic partnership within the association, defending priorities of

building fair, just, and multipolar world order on the basis of strict

observance of international law and the UN Charter.

The Sides declared their support to Afghan government’s efforts

towards the realization of an Afghan-led, and Afghan-owned national

peace reconciliation process. Concerned with the unabated violence and

severely undermined security situation in Afghanistan and its adverse

effect on the region, the Sides resolved to work through the Moscow

Format, SCO Contact Group on Afghanistan, and all other recognized

formats for an early resolution to the long-term conflict in Afghanistan,

end to terrorist violence, external safe havens and sanctuaries for

terrorists and the worsening drug problem in the country. Both Sides

called upon the international community to join efforts to thwart any

external interference in Afghanistan, to restore its economy, contribute to

sustaining peace and security, economic and political development of a


stable, secure, united, prosperous and independent Afghanistan. The two

Sides will direct their activity to launch joint development and capacity

building projects in Afghanistan.

The Sides reaffirmed the commitment of India and Russia for a

political resolution of the conflict in Syria, through an inclusive Syrian-led,

Syrian-owned political process which safeguards the state sovereignty,

independence and territorial integrity of Syria in pursuance of United

Nations Security Council Resolution 2254 (2015). They reiterated their

support for the Geneva process and the mediation offered by the UN, as

well as the Astana process, and stressed the complementarity between the

two initiatives. Both Sides called upon all stake holders to actively engage

in building a peaceful, stable and sovereign Syrian nation and support the

intra-Syrian dialogue without preconditions or external interference. Both

Sides called for enhancing efforts to provide necessary humanitarian

assistance to bring the long drawn suffering of the Syrian people to an end

soon, bearing in mind urgent reconstruction needs and return of refugees

and internally displaced persons.

The Sides underlined the importance of the full and effective

implementation of the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) on the

Iranian nuclear programme in order to support international peace and

security, to strengthen non-proliferation regime and to develop normal

economic cooperation with Iran. They called for all issues related to the

Iranian nuclear programme to be resolved peacefully and through

dialogue.

The Sides welcomed the positive developments in the Korean

peninsula and conveyed their support for efforts to bring about lasting

peace and stability in this sub-region through diplomacy and dialogue.

Both Sides agreed that while drawing-up the mechanism to resolve the

Korean Peninsula issues it is necessary to take into account and address

concerns related to its proliferation linkages.

The Sides expressed the serious concern about the possibility of an

arms race in outer space and of outer space turning into an arena for

military confrontation. They reaffirmed that the prevention of an arms

race in outer space (PAROS), would avert a grave danger for international

peace and security. The Sides welcomed the deliberations of the first

session of the UN Group of Governmental Experts on PAROS to discuss

possible elements for a legally binding instrument on PAROS including

inter alia, on the prevention of the placement of weapons in outer space.

They stressed that practical transparency and confidence building

measures might also contribute to the objectives of PAROS.

The Sides reaffirmed their determination to support efforts and

initiatives aimed at preserving the role of the Convention on the

Prohibition of the Development, Production, Stockpiling and Use of

Chemical Weapons and on their Destruction, and preventing the

politicization of the activities of the Organization for the Prohibition of

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Chemical Weapons. The Indian Side welcomed the Russian Federation's

early completion of destruction of its chemical weapons' stockpiles, which

represents a significant contribution to achieving the goal of creating a

world free from chemical weapons.

The Sides denounced terrorism in all its forms and manifestations

and reiterated the need to combat international terrorism with decisive

and collective response without any double standards. The Sides agreed to

converge their efforts to eradicate terrorist networks, their sources of

financing, arms and fighters supply channels, to counter terrorist ideology,

propaganda and recruitment. The Sides condemned all kinds of state

support to terrorists including cross border terrorism and providing safe

havens to terrorists and their network. Recognizing the importance of

adopting the Comprehensive Convention on International Terrorism,

pending in the United Nations, to become part of the international law,

both Sides called upon the international community to make sincere

efforts towards its early conclusion. То address the threats of chemical and

biological terrorism, the Sides supported and emphasized the need for

launching multilateral negotiations at the Conference on Disarmament on

an international convention for the suppression of acts of chemical and

biological terrorism.

The Sides reaffirmed their commitment to the principles of

international law and the centrality of the United Nations in international

relations. Both Sides share the view that implementation in good faith of

generally recognized principles and rules of international law excludes the

practice of double standards or imposition by some States of their will on

other States, and consider that imposition of unilateral coercive measures

not based on international law, is an example of such practice. Both Sides

would continue to work together to promote a democratic world order

based on global and shared interests.

The Sides reaffirmed the need to reform the UN Security Council to

better reflect the current world order and make it more effective in

dealing with emerging global challenges. Russia reiterated its unwavering

support to India for Permanent Membership in an expanded UNSC. Both

Sides resolved to work closely to ensure peace, security and equitable

development both regionally and globally and to coordinate their efforts to

address challenges to the stability of the world order.

The Sides reaffirmed their commitment to fully implement the

2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. Both Sides will pursue

equitable, open, all-round, innovation-driven and inclusive development,

to achieve sustainable development in its three dimensions - economic,

social and environmental - in a balanced and integrated manner. They

reiterate the important role of the United Nations, including the High Level

Political Forum on Sustainable Development, in coordinating and

reviewing global implementation of the 2030 Agenda. They agree on the

need to reform the UN Development System with a view to enhancing its


capability in supporting Member States in implementing the 2030 Agenda.

Both Sides urged the developed countries to honor their Official

Development Assistance commitments in time and in full and provide

more development resources to developing countries.

The Sides committed to further promote green development and

low-carbon economy, in the context of sustainable development and

poverty eradication. They called upon all countries to fully implement the

Paris Agreement adopted under the principles of the United Nations

Framework Convention on Climate Change including the principles of

common but differentiated responsibilities and respective capabilities, and

urged developed countries to provide financial, technological and

capacity-building support to developing countries to enhance their

capability in mitigation and adaptation.

The Sides reiterated their commitment to further strengthen

global non-proliferation. Russia expressed its support for India’s

membership of the Nuclear Suppliers Group.

The Sides stated the necessity of early adoption of rules, norms

and principles of responsible behavior of States in the use of ICTs, as well

as enhancement of international cooperation in the field of countering the

use of ICTs for criminal purposes by developing international legal

instrument in this sphere. In this regard the Sides underlined importance

of adoption of relevant resolutions by the UN General Assembly during its

73rd session. The Sides acknowledged the necessity to establish a

framework of cooperation among BRICS states on ensuring security in the

use of ICTs and confirmed intention to work towards elaboration of a

BRICS intergovernmental agreement on cooperation on this matter.

The Sides underlined common approaches to ensuring security in

the use of ICTs and their willingness to strengthen bilateral interagency

practical dialogue in furtherance of the intergovernmental Agreement on

Cooperation in the field of Security in the Use of Information and

Communication Technologies.

Both Sides supported the idea of the establishment of Regional

Security Architecture, that provides equal and indivisible security to all

countries in Asia and in the regions of Pacific and Indian Oceans. The Sides

emphasized the importance of the continuation of the multilateral

dialogue on this theme within the framework of the East Asia Summits and

other regional fora. Both Sides agreed that all new initiatives aimed at

strengthening of the regional order are to be based on multilateralism,

principles of transparency, inclusiveness, mutual respect and unity in the

common pursuit of progress and prosperity and not directed against any

country. In this regard, the Sides welcomed the constructive consultations

held at Moscow on 24 August 2018 between Deputy Foreign Minister of

the Russian Federation Igor Morgulov and Foreign Secretary of the

Republic of India Vijay Gokhale.

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The Sides confirmed their determination to enhance interaction

and coordination of efforts in the regional multilateral fora such as BRICS,

G-20, SCO, RIC and East Asia Summits. India expressed its aspiration to

broaden cooperation with the Eurasian Economic Union.

The Sides noted that the participation of the Prime Minister of the

Republic of India Narendra Modi in the SCO Heads of State Council Meeting

in Qingdao in June 2018 marked successful involvement of India in the

work of the Organization as a full-fledged member. The Sides, confirming

their commitment to the SCO Charter, norms and principles of

international law, will continue coordinated efforts to further realize the

potential of the Organization in all directions of its activities.

Special attention will be paid to the issues of security and stability,

including combating terrorism, illegal drug-trafficking and organized

crime, thereby increasing effectiveness of cooperation within the SCO

Regional Anti-Terrorist Structure.

Russia welcomed the participation of India in the counter-terror

military exercise "Peace Mission – 2018”. Both Sides consider the goal of

developing an economic component of SCO as an important one, including

realization of transportation and infrastructure projects aimed at

providing interconnection within the SCO Organization and with

observers, partner countries, as well as other interested states. They stood

for increasing the role of SCO in the international affairs and believe it

necessary to expand contacts and cooperation of SCO with the UN and its

structures, other international and regional organizations. The Sides

agreed to deepen cultural and humanitarian ties within the SCO.

The Sides stand for strengthening of open, inclusive, transparent,

non-discriminatory and rules-based multilateral trade system and

prevention of fragmentation of international trade relations and trade

protectionism in all forms.

India welcomed the initiative of Russia to create a Larger Eurasian

Partnership that stipulates conjugation of national development strategies

and multilateral integration projects in the interests of building effective

platform of constructive cooperation based on strict observance of the

international law, principles of equality, mutual respect and taking in

account each other national perspectives.

The Sides expressed their satisfaction on the progress in India -

Russia relations, shared interests and similar positions on issues of

bilateral and international importance and agreed to continue this

trajectory of closer cooperation, coordination and consolidation of gains to

surge ahead the Special and Privileged Strategic Partnership of India and

Russia for the mutual prosperity of people of both countries.

President of the Russian Federation Vladimir Putin thanked Prime

Minister of the Republic of India Narendra Modi for the hospitality

extended and invited him to visit Russia for the 20th Annual Summit in


2019. Prime Minister Narendra Modi accepted the invitation with great

pleasure.

Source: https://www.mea.gov.in/bilateraldocuments.htm?dtl/30469/

IndiaRussia_Joint_Statement_during_visit_of_President_of_Russia_to_India_

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Document: 2

Joint Statement on the Inaugural U.S.-India 2+2 Ministerial

Dialogue, Media Note-Office of the Spokesperson, Washington D.

C., September 6, 2018.

inister of External Affairs Sushma Swaraj and Minister of Defence

Nirmala Sitharaman welcomed Secretary of State Michael R.

Pompeo and Secretary of Defense James N. Mattis to India on

September 6, 2018, for the inaugural U.S.-India Ministerial 2+2 Dialogue.

They welcomed the launch of the 2+2 Dialogue as a reflection of the

shared commitment by Prime Minister Modi and President Trump to

provide a positive, forward-looking vision for the India-U.S. strategic

partnership and to promote synergy in their diplomatic and security

efforts. They resolved to continue meetings in this format on an annual

basis.

Celebrating over 70 years of diplomatic cooperation, the Ministers

reaffirmed their view that India and the United States, as sovereign

democracies founded on the values of freedom, justice, and commitment

to the rule of law, must continue to lead global efforts to promote peace,

prosperity, and security.

Recognizing their two countries are strategic partners, major and

independent stakeholders in world affairs, the Ministers committed to

work together on regional and global issues, including in bilateral,

trilateral, and quadrilateral formats. The two sides further decided to

establish secure communication between the Minister of External Affairs

of India and the U.S. Secretary of State, and between the Minister of

Defence of India and the U.S. Secretary of Defense, to help maintain regular

high-level communication on emerging developments.

Strengthening the Defense and Security Partnership

The Ministers reaffirmed the strategic importance of India’s

designation as a Major Defense Partner (MDP) of the United States and

committed to expand the scope of India’s MDP status and take mutually

agreed upon steps to strengthen defense ties further and promote better

defense and security coordination and cooperation. They noted the rapid

growth in bilateral defense trade and the qualitative improvement in

levels of technology and equipment offered by the United States to India in

recent years. They welcomed the inclusion of India by the United States

among the top tier of countries entitled to license-free exports, re-exports,

and transfers under License Exception Strategic Trade Authorization

(STA-1) and also committed to explore other means to support further

expansion in two-way trade in defense items and defense manufacturing

supply chain linkages. They welcomed the signing of a Communications

M


Compatibility and Security Agreement (COMCASA) that will facilitate

access to advanced defense systems and enable India to optimally utilize

its existing U.S.-origin platforms. The Ministers also announced their

readiness to begin negotiations on an Industrial Security Annex (ISA) that

would support closer defense industry cooperation and collaboration.

Recognizing their rapidly growing military-to-military ties, the two

sides committed to the creation of a new, tri-services exercise and to

further increase personnel exchanges between the two militaries and

defense organizations. The Ministers reviewed the recent growth of

bilateral engagements in support of maritime security and maritime

domain awareness, and committed to expand cooperation. Toward that

end, the Ministers committed to start exchanges between the U.S. Naval

Forces Central Command (NAVCENT) and the Indian Navy, underscoring

the importance of deepening their maritime cooperation in the western

Indian Ocean.

Acknowledging the unique role of technology in the U.S.-India

defense partnership, the Ministers reaffirmed their commitment to

continue to encourage and prioritize co-production and co-development

projects through the Defense Technology and Trade Initiative (DTTI), and

to pursue other avenues of defense innovation cooperation. In this regard,

they welcomed the conclusion of a Memorandum of Intent between the

U.S. Defense Innovation Unit (DIU) and the Indian Defence Innovation

Organization – Innovation for Defence Excellence (DIO-iDEX).

Welcoming the expansion of bilateral counter-terrorism

cooperation, the Ministers announced their intent to increase information-

sharing efforts on known or suspected terrorists and to implement UN

Security Council Resolution 2396 on returning foreign terrorist fighters.

They committed to enhance their ongoing cooperation in multilateral fora

such as the UN and FATF. They reaffirmed their support for a UN

Comprehensive Convention on International Terrorism that will advance

and strengthen the framework for global cooperation and reinforce the

message that no cause or grievance justifies terrorism. The Ministers

denounced any use of terrorist proxies in the region, and in this context,

they called on Pakistan to ensure that the territory under its control is not

used to launch terrorist attacks on other countries. On the eve of the 10-

year anniversary of the 26/11 Mumbai attack, they called on Pakistan to

bring to justice expeditiously the perpetrators of the Mumbai, Pathankot,

Uri, and other cross-border terrorist attacks. The Ministers welcomed the

launch of a bilateral dialogue on designation of terrorists in 2017, which is

strengthening cooperation and action against terrorist groups, including

Al-Qa’ida, ISIS, Lashkar-e-Tayyiba, Jaish-e-Mohammad, Hizb-ul

Mujahideen, the Haqqani Network, Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan, D-Company,

and their affiliates. The two sides further reaffirmed their commitment to

ongoing and future cooperation to ensure a stable cyberspace

environment and to prevent cyber-attacks.

Documents 105

Partners in the Indo-Pacific and Beyond

The Ministers reviewed cooperation in the Indo-Pacific region,

noting that the common principles for the region articulated in the India-

U.S. Joint Statement of June 2017 have been further amplified by President

Donald Trump at Danang, Vietnam on November 10, 2017, and Prime

Minister Narendra Modi in Singapore at the Shangri-La Dialogue on June 1,

2018. Both sides committed to work together and in concert with other

partners toward advancing a free, open, and inclusive Indo-Pacific region,

based on recognition of ASEAN centrality and on respect for sovereignty,

territorial integrity, rule of law, good governance, free and fair trade, and

freedom of navigation and overflight. Noting the importance of

infrastructure and connectivity for the Indo-Pacific region, both sides

emphasized the need to work collectively with other partner countries to

support transparent, responsible, and sustainable debt financing practices

in infrastructure development.

The Ministers reaffirmed their shared commitment to a united,

sovereign, democratic, inclusive, stable, prosperous, and peaceful

Afghanistan. The two sides expressed support for an Afghan-led, Afghan-

owned peace and reconciliation process. The United States acknowledged

India’s longstanding and ongoing contributions of economic assistance to

Afghanistan and also welcomed India’s enhanced role in Afghanistan’s

development and stabilization.

India welcomed the recent U.S.-North Korea summit. The two sides

pledged to work together to counter North Korea’s weapons of mass

destruction programs and to hold accountable those countries that have

supported them.

The United States welcomed India’s accession to the Australia

Group, the Wassenaar Arrangement, and the Missile Technology Control

Regime and reiterated its full support for India’s immediate accession to

the Nuclear Suppliers Group.

Promoting Prosperity and People-to-People Ties

The Ministers recognized the importance and the potential for

increasing bilateral trade, investment, innovation, and job creation in both

countries. Both sides committed to further expanding and balancing the

trade and economic partnership consistent with their leaders’ 2017 joint

statement, including by facilitating trade, improving market access, and

addressing issues of interest to both sides. In this regard, both sides

welcomed the ongoing exchanges between the Ministry of Commerce of

India and the Office of the United States Trade Representative and hoped

for mutually acceptable outcomes.

Both sides looked forward to full implementation of the civil

nuclear energy partnership and collaboration between Nuclear Power

Corporation of India Limited (NPCIL) and Westinghouse Electric Company

for the establishment of six nuclear power plants in India.


Observing the strong ties of family, education, and business, and

the spirit of entrepreneurship and innovation that unite their people, the

Ministers highlighted the unmatched people-to-people ties between their

countries and recognized the benefits to both nations and the world from

these ties, including the free flow of ideas and collaboration in health,

space, oceans, and other areas of science and technology.

Source: https://www.state.gov/r/pa/prs/ps/2018/09/285729.htm

Documents 107

Document: 3

Joint Statement between the People's Republic of China and the

Islamic Republic of Pakistan on Strengthening China-Pakistan

All-Weather Strategic Cooperative Partnership and Building

Closer China-Pakistan Community of Shared Future in the New

Era, Beijing, November 4, 2018.

t the invitation of H.E. Li Keqiang, Premier of the State Council of the

People's Republic of China, H.E. Imran Khan, Prime Minister of the

Islamic Republic of Pakistan, paid his first official visit to China on

November2-5, 2018. During his visit, H.E. Imran Khan called on H.E. Xi

Jinping, President of China, held talks with H.E. Li Keqiang, Premier, and

met with H.E. Li Zhanshu, Chairman of the Standing Committee of the the

National People's Congress, and H.E. Wang Qishan, Vice President of China

respectively. Meetings were marked by traditional warmth, mutual

understanding and trust, and the leaders of the two countries had an in-

depth exchange of views on bilateral, regional and international issues of

mutual interest. Prime Minister Imran Khan also delivered a speech at the

Party School of CPC Central Committee. Besides Beijing, Prime Minister

Imran Khan also visited Shanghai to attend the First China International

Import Expo.

Reviewing with satisfaction the historical development of China-

Pakistan relations and the great strides made, both sides reiterated that

the friendship between Pakistan and China has withstood the test of time,

notwithstanding the changes in domestic, regional and international

environments. The two sides agreed to further strengthen the China-

Pakistan All-Weather Strategic Cooperative Partnership, and build closer

China-Pakistan Community of Shared Future in the new era in line with

the principles set forth by the Treaty of Friendship, Cooperation and Good-

neighborly Relations between the People's Republic of China and the

Islamic Republic of Pakistan signed in 2005.

1. Political Relations and Strategic Communication

Both sides stressed that China and Pakistan are good neighbors,

close friends, iron brothers and trusted partners. The friendship and

cooperation between China and Pakistan serve the fundamental interests

of the two countries and peoples, and contribute to peace, stability and

development in the region and beyond. Both sides will continue to view

China-Pakistan relations from a strategic and long-term perspective.

The Chinese side reiterated that China's relationship with Pakistan

is always a matter of highest priority in its foreign policy. China

appreciated the consistent and strong support by Pakistan to China's

A


issues of core interest, and reaffirmed its support and solidarity with

Pakistan in safeguarding its sovereignty, independence, territorial

integrity and security. It appreciated Pakistan's important role in

promoting regional peace, stability and security and efforts for the

peaceful resolution of all outstanding issues with its neighbors.

The Pakistani side stressed that Pakistan-China relationship is the

cornerstone of its foreign policy, and friendship with China represents

national consensus and the common desire of all Pakistani people.

Pakistan appreciated the strong support and assistance provided by the

government and people of China to Pakistan in its economic development.

It unequivocally upholds the one-China policy and supports all efforts

made by the Chinese government to realize national reunification.

Both sides agreed to maintain frequent exchange of visits and

meetings at the leadership level and continue to hold bilateral meetings

between their leaders on the sidelines of major multilateral conferences

and events. The two sides agreed to further strengthen links between their

legislative bodies. China welcomed the establishment of Pakistan-China

Friendship Groups in Pakistani Parliament.

Both sides agreed to establish the mechanism of China-Pakistan

Foreign Ministers' Strategic Dialogue and rename the former Strategic

Dialogue at Vice Foreign Minister-level to Political Consultations. They also

agreed to continue exchange programmes pertaining to training of

diplomats.

2. China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC)

Prime Minister Imran Khan commended President Xi Jinping's

visionary Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) that aims at enhancing regional

and international connectivity. The two sides reiterated that BRI

represents a win-win model of international cooperation and provides

new opportunities for economic rejuvenation and prosperity of all

countries. As a signature project of BRI, the fast development of CPEC has

played a significant role in the Belt and Road cooperation.

Both sides reviewed the early harvest phase of CPEC and

expressed satisfaction that rapid progress has been made in all areas

especially in the energy sector. The two sides reaffirmed their complete

consensus on the future trajectory of the CPEC, timely completion of its

on-going projects and joint efforts for realization of its full potential with a

focus on social-economic development, job creation and livelihoods and

accelerating cooperation in industrial development, industrial parks and

agriculture.

Both sides agreed to task the CPEC Joint Cooperation Committee

(JCC) to explore new areas of cooperation. In this regard, it was decided

that the eight session of the JCC will be held in Beijing before the end of the

year. To further expand cooperation under CPEC, the two sides announced

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the setting up of a working group on social-economic development to

assist with livelihood projects in Pakistan.

Both sides reaffirmed their commitment to CPEC and agreed that it

was a win-win enterprise for entire region and would bring regional

prosperity and development through enhanced connectivity. They agreed

to discuss the CPEC-related issues including through China-Pakistan

Strategic Dialogue, political consultations and JCC.

Recognizing the significance of Gwadar as an important node in

cross-regional connectivity and the central pillar of CPEC, both sides

agreed to speed up progress on the Port and its auxiliary projects.

Both sides dismissed the growing negative propaganda against

CPEC and expressed determination to safeguard the CPEC projects from all

threats. Pakistan recognized the immense contribution of the Chinese

personnel working on various economic projects in Pakistan. The Chinese

side expressed its appreciation for the measures taken for the security of

Chinese personnel and projects in Pakistan.

3. Trade, Investment and Financial Cooperation

The two sides agreed to further consolidate and expand bilateral

economic relations as a matter of high priority and to strengthen multi-

faceted pragmatic cooperation in trade and investment. They agreed to

boost Pakistan's industrial capacity including through joint ventures in

priority areas, relocation of labor-intensive industry and SMEs

collaboration.

The two sides noted the growing volume of bilateral trade and

agreed to take concrete measures to address trade imbalance. These

would include exchange of trade missions, broadening market access for

agricultural and ICT products, and simplifying customs, quarantine and

phytosanitary procedures. In this context, the two sides agreed to

conclude the second phase of the China-Pakistan Free Trade Agreement as

early as possible, and continue discussions on the Pakistan-China

Agreement on Trade in Services.

The two sides agreed to strengthen economic cooperation by fully

leveraging the existing cooperative arrangements such as China-Pakistan

Business Council, which is composed of China Council for the Promotion of

International Trade (CCPIT) and the Federation of Pakistan Chamber of

Commerce and Industry (FPCCI), and those between Stock Exchanges of

the two countries. The two sides agreed to hold the next round of the Joint

Economic Commission early next year.

The two sides attached importance to friendly cooperation

between the People's Bank of China and the State Bank of Pakistan. They

expressed satisfaction at the operationalization of the currency-swap

agreement and reaffirmed the need to further strengthen cooperative ties

of financial and banking sectors between the two countries. Both sides

noted with satisfaction that Chinese and Pakistani banks have operations


in both countries. Both sides agreed to strengthen cooperation on tourism

promotion.

4. Marine, Science and Technology, Space, Environmental and

Agricultural Cooperation

Both sides agreed to further strengthen policy dialogue and

strategic communication on maritime issues and expressed satisfaction on

the China-Pakistan Maritime Cooperation Dialogue. They agreed to

continue their close cooperation on navigation security, marine economy,

exploration and utilization of marine resources, marine scientific research

and marine environmental protection.

Both sides agreed to further expand and deepen their

collaboration including in the areas of new and emerging technologies,

nanotechnology, biotechnology, ICT, which can contribute to improved

living standards through their applications in the fields of health,

agriculture, water, energy and food security.

The two sides agreed to actively promote 2012-2020 Space

Cooperation Outline between China National Space Administration (CNSA)

and Pakistan Space and Upper Atmosphere Research Commission

(SUPARCO) . Expressing satisfaction on the launch of Pakistan Remote

Sensing Satellite (PRSS) earlier this year, both sides agreed to further

strengthen bilateral cooperation in space technology applications. The two

sides agreed to strengthen cooperation in the field of manned space, and

the China Manned Space Engineering Office (CMSEO) and SUPARCO will

sign a framework agreement on cooperation.

Both sides agreed to enhance their cooperation in the areas of

climate change, desertification control, desalination, water management,

afforestation and ecological restoration, wetland protection and

restoration, wildlife protection, forestry industry development, disaster

management and risk reduction, and other areas of mutual interest.

Pakistan side recognized the great strides made by China in the

field of agriculture. Both sides agreed to build on existing cooperation in

the area of agriculture and explore new areas of joint collaboration.

5. Social Sector Cooperation

Pakistan expressed a desire to learn from the Chinese poverty

alleviation model, which has lifted over 700 million people out of poverty

over the last forty years. China is willing to strengthen policy dialogue,

experience sharing and capacity building in the field of poverty reduction

with Pakistan, and support Pakistan to establish poverty alleviation

demonstration projects. The Chinese assistance will also be directed

towards agriculture, education, health, poverty alleviation, safe drinking

water and vocational training.

Both sides also agreed to enhance collaboration in the field of

health care,medical and surgical treatment. Both sides will share best

Documents 111

practices and explore collaboration in the fields of disease surveillance and

control, vaccine production as well as traditional medicine.

The Pakistan side recognized China's unremitting efforts to combat

corruption and its great achievements, and evinced interest in learning

from the Chinese experience and accomplishments in the field of anti-

corruption.

6. People-to-People and Cultural Linkages

Both sides reiterated the importance of people-to-people contacts

and cultural exchanges and agreed to encourage mutual visits of national

of the two countries. Both sides agreed to improve visa facilitation for

mutual visits.

Both sides decided to celebrate Pakistan-China Year of

Friendship/Sister Cities in 2019 and to establish friendship city

relationships between corresponding Chinese and Pakistani cities and

provinces. It was agreed to enhance exchanges and dialogue between

leaders at provincial and local levels. The two sides agreed to further

enhance cooperation between neighboring regions of the two countries,

particularly in the areas of economy, trade, transportation, energy,

industry, tourism, education, people-to-people contacts and livelihoods.

Both sides expressed satisfaction at the growing cooperation in the

field of education and agreed to intensify educational linkages especially

between higher education institutions. China is a popular destination for

Pakistani students with about 25,000 Pakistanis enrolled across

universities in China. China will offer additional scholarships for Pakistani

students.

They agreed to encourage respective universities to develop

bilateral linkages including through joint degree and exchange

programmes. They further agreed to promote teaching of Pakistan Studies

and Urdu language at Chinese Universities and Sinology and Chinese

language at Pakistani Universities. Both sides agreed to negotiate

agreements on mutual recognition of higher education degrees, diplomas

and certificates as early as possible.

The Chinese side agreed to continue supporting Pakistan in

technical and vocational training to develop a skilled manpower for

employment in CEPC projects, including through assistance in upgrading

vocational training institutes, vocational training exchanges, and capacity

building of the trainers.

Both sides agreed to further promote exchanges between the think

tanks including through conferences, seminars and fellowships. Both sides

would encourage cooperation between their media houses and exchange

visits and training programmes for journalists/media personnel.

Both sides agreed to further enhance cooperation in culture, arts,

broadcasting, films, publication and sports under the Executive

Programme of the Cultural Agreement between the two countries. The two


sides shall enhance exchanges and cooperation in museums and promote

exchanges in the conservation and presentation of heritage and artifacts

and exchange of archaeologists between the two countries. The two sides

shall discuss the possibility to organize an Ancient Pakistan and Gandhara

Artifacts Exhibition in Beijing. They also agreed to strengthen cooperation

in the field of sports. The respective sports authorities will discuss further

details. The two sides will actively encourage and support their publishing

houses to translate and print literary classics so that the people of the two

countries can appreciate each other's rich culture.

The two sides also agreed to establish China-Pakistan Youth

Communication Committee, which will coordinate the exchange of youth

and cooperation on youth affairs.

7. Defence, Security and Counter-terrorism Cooperation

Both sides agreed to further enhance defence cooperation,

maintain high-level visits and exchanges at various levels between

relevant departments of the two armed forces, make full use of the China-

Pakistan Defence and Security Consultation mechanism, deepen

cooperation in areas such as military exercises, training cooperation,

personnel exchanges, and equipment and technology cooperation.

Both sides agreed to further enhance cooperation against "Three

Evils" of extremism, terrorism and separatism. Both sides will continue to

regularly utilize their existing mechanisms of Strategic Dialogue and

Counter-terrorism and Security Consultations to further promote

communication and cooperation in relevant fields.

The Chinese side conveyed its support to Pakistan's commitment

and efforts to counter terrorism, assured Pakistan of its support in

implementing its counter-terrorism strategy, and commended the

tremendous sacrifices made by the Pakistani nation in fight against

terrorism and for Pakistan's immense contribution to regional and

international peace and security through its achievements and successes.

The Chinese side recognized Pakistan's efforts in actively strengthening

financial regulations to combat terrorism financing, and called on all

relevant parties to view Pakistan's counter-terrorism efforts in an

objective and fair manner.

The Pakistani side reaffirmed its support to the Chinese side in

safeguarding its sovereignty and security, and combating separatism,

terrorism and extremism including East Turkistan Islamic Movement

(ETIM).

8. International and Regional Issues

Both sides reaffirmed their commitment to the purposes and

principles of the UN Charter, promoting international peace and security,

and safeguarding the contemporary world order and the UN-centric

international system. They agreed to jointly promote multilateralism, free

Documents 113

trade and win-win cooperation. The two sides support a consensus-based

reform of the United Nations so that it responds to the interests and

concerns of all Member States. Being major contributors to the UN

Peacekeeping Operations over the years, the two sides agreed to enhance

policy coordination, capacity building and sharing of good practices on

peacekeeping.

Both sides believed that peace, development, cooperation and win-

win are shared aspirations of the peoples in the region. All nations should

promote cooperative and sustainable security, refrain from developing

relations targeting any third country, contribute more to the mutual trust

between regional countries, and respect sovereign decisions of countries

in determining their development paths and respective foreign policies, so

as to jointly safeguard the peace and stability of the region.

Both sides believe that a peaceful, stable, cooperative and

prosperous South Asia is in the common interest of all parties. Both sides

emphasized the importance of pursuit of dialogue and resolution of all

outstanding disputes to promote regional cooperation and advance the

goals of lasting peace, stability and shared prosperity. China appreciates

Pakistan's quest for peace through dialogue, cooperation and negotiation,

on the basis of mutual respect and equality, and supports Pakistan's

efforts for improvement of Pakistan-India relations and for settlement of

outstanding disputes between the two countries. Pakistan supported

active participation of China at the platform of the South Asian Association

for Regional Cooperation (SAARC).

Both sides agreed to strengthen cooperation on the Afghan issue

and support the 'Afghan-owned and Afghan-led' peace and reconciliation

process. China appreciates that Pakistan and Afghanistan are coordinating

closely through the Afghanistan-Pakistan Action Plan for Peace and

Solidarity (APAPPS) to enhance cooperation between the two countries in

all areas. Both sides agreed on the importance of China-Afghanistan-

Pakistan consultations at the Foreign Ministers level aimed at deepening

trilateral cooperation for shared progress, development and security and

for strengthening peace and stability in Afghanistan. Both sides supported

Afghanistan to host the second tripartite foreign minister dialogue within

this year.

The two sides underlined the importance of peaceful settlement of

all disputes in the Middle East on the basis of mutual respect and in

accordance to the precepts of international law.

The two sides agreed that JCPOA is an important outcome of

multilateralism and a good model of negotiated settlement of complex

issues through dialogue and diplomacy. They called on parties to uphold

their respective commitments and to resolve all issues through dialogue.

They opposed unilateral measures and long-arm jurisdiction that is

inconsistent with the principles of international law.


The two sides reaffirmed their commitment to multilateral, non-

discriminatory arms control and non-proliferation endeavours. They

noted with concern the continued pursuit of double standards in the

application of non-proliferation norms and procedures and called for

policies upholding rule of law and long-standing rules. China appreciates

and supports steps taken by Pakistan for strengthening the global non-

proliferation regime. In this context, China supports Pakistan's

engagement with the Nuclear Suppliers Group and welcomes its

adherence of NSG Guidelines.

Recalling the commitments of all states for implementation of

General Assembly and Security Council resolutions relating to

international terrorism, both sides underscored the need for all States to

avoid politicization of the UN Sanctions regime and the work of the

Financial Action Task Force (FATF). Both sides also reiterated the need to

evolve the text of Comprehensive Convention on International Terrorism

on the basis of consensus.

Both sides agreed to strengthen coordination and cooperation on

international and regional issues of common interest; and maintain close

communication and coordination within international and regional

organizations and mechanisms such as the United Nations, the Shanghai

Cooperation Organization (SCO), SAARC, the Asia-Europe Meeting (ASEM),

the ASEAN Regional Forum (ARF) and the Conference on Interaction and

Confidence Building Measures in Asia (CICA). China welcomed Pakistan's

membership of SCO and appreciated its active participation in the SCO

Summit in Qingdao in June 2018.

During the visit, the two sides also signed fifteen (15)

Agreements/MoUs on a range of bilateral issues.

Prime Minister Imran Khan expressed his appreciation to the

leadership and people of China for the warm hospitality accorded to him

and his delegation and invited Chinese leaders to visit Pakistan at a

mutually convenient time.

Source: https://www.fmprc.gov.cn/mfa_eng/wjdt_665385/2649_

665393/t1610025.shtml

Documents 115

Document: 4

Statement by H.E. Wang Yi State Councilor and Foreign Minister

of the People's Republic of China at the Security Council Open

Debate on the Maintenance of International Peace and Security,

UN Headquarters, New York,September 26, 2018.

r. President,

Safeguarding world peace and security is the primary

responsibility of the Security Council entrusted by the UN Charter

and a shared responsibility of all the Council members.

Facing complex challenges to international peace and security, how can

the Security Council fulfill its responsibility and play its due role? This is a

question that deserves serious consideration. In this context, China would

like to suggest the following:

- The Security Council should remain committed to performing its duties

under the Charter in a just manner. It should uphold multilateralism, the

purposes and principles of the UN Charter and universally-recognized

international law and basic norms governing international relations, and

safeguard the authority and role of the United Nations in international

affairs as well as the sovereignty, independence and legitimate rights and

interests of all countries.

- The Security Council should remain committed to the basic orientation of

political resolution. It should act as a strong advocate and be closely

engaged in efforts for political settlement, and work to resolve differences

and disputes through dialogue and consultation. It should enhance

preventive diplomacy with effective use of good offices, mediation,

peacekeeping and peace building in the service of the general objective of

political resolution.

- The Security Council should remain committed to enhancing solidarity

and consensus building. Keeping in mind their responsibility for

safeguarding world peace and security, Council members should enhance

solidarity and coordination, reject geopolitical maneuvering, and work

together to ensure that the Security Council functions effectively and the

common interests of broad members of the UN are upheld.

- The Security Council should strengthen synergy through closer

coordination. It should coordinate and cooperate with the UN General

Assembly, ECOSOC, the UN Secretary-General and the UN development

system for mutual support between the political pillar and the

development pillar, and for mutually reinforcing progress of their efforts

for lasting peace and sustainable development.

Mr. President,

M


The proliferation of weapons of mass destruction and their means

of delivery pose a real threat to global peace and security and a common

challenge to the international community.

China believes that efforts should be stepped up in the following

three areas:

First, we need to uphold the rule of law and consolidate the

international non-proliferation regime. The Treaty on the Non-

Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons, the Biological Weapons Convention, the

Chemical Weapons Convention, the UNSCR 1540 and other Security

Council resolutions constitute the legal basis of the international non-

proliferation regime. We should earnestly safeguard the universality,

effectiveness and authority of the non-proliferation regime. In particular,

efforts should be made to prevent and stop terrorists and other non-state

actors from getting hold of WMD materials and technology.

Second, we need to take multi-pronged measures to implement the

non-proliferation conventions in a balanced manner. All countries need to

stand by their commitments, honor non-proliferation responsibilities and

fulfill international obligations. The non-proliferation conventions and

agreements must be implemented in their entirety; any double standards,

discriminatory arrangements or selective enforcement must not be

allowed.

Third, we need to strengthen international cooperation and build

the non-proliferation capacity of all countries. As governments bear the

primary responsibility for non-proliferation, we should support them in

developing their own non-proliferation policies in line with national

conditions, and encourage continued efforts to enhance relevant law

enforcement capabilities and engage in more exchanges and practical

cooperation with the aim of shoring up the weak links and promoting

universal security.

Mr. President,

The Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) on the Iranian

nuclear issue is a hard-won outcome of multilateralism. It contributes to

the international nuclear non-proliferation regime as well as peace and

stability in the Middle East. No international agreement is impeccable. The

JCPOA was unanimously endorsed by the Security Council, and has proved

to be effective during the past three years. China encourages Iran to

continue to fulfill the commitments it has made. At the same time, the

lawful right of parties to conduct normal economic and trade cooperation

with Iran should be respected. We call on the relevant parties to keep in

mind the bigger and longer-term interests and uphold the sanctity,

integrity and efficacy of the JCPOA.

Over the past few months, the situation on the Korean Peninsula

has eased significantly. China welcomes this development, and has made

tireless efforts to this end. We support the important common

understanding reached by the leaders of the DPRK and the US in Singapore

Documents 117

and the all-round improvement in inter-Korea relations. We call on all

parties to cherish and seize the opportunities at hand, turn political

commitments into concrete actions, and continue to work toward the

complete denuclearization and the setting-up of a peace mechanism on the

Peninsula, with a view to attaining lasting peace there at an early date.

Mr. President,

China has stood by its solemn commitment to the purposes and

principles of the UN Charter. We are committed to upholding the

contemporary international system with the UN at its core and have

conscientiously fulfilled our international responsibilities and obligations.

Let us all work together to advance peace and security for the benefit of

all.

Before I conclude, let me stress that China has all along followed

the principle of non-interference in other countries' internal affairs. This

tradition of China's foreign policy has won extensive acclaim in the

international community. China has not, is not, and will not engage in any

such interference. Unfounded accusations in this regard cannot be

accepted. We call on other countries to also observe the purposes of the

UN Charter and not to interfere in the internal affairs of other countries.

Thank you, Mr. President.

Source: https://www.fmprc.gov.cn/mfa_eng/wjdt_665385/

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