Simran Sodhi

Tribune News Service

New Delhi, February 8

China today defended its decision to block the US’ proposal in the UN to get Jaish chief Masood Azhar designated as global terrorist.China said the conditions required for backing the ban on Azhar had not been met. In a way, the Chinese position is a reiteration of its now oft-stated posture on Azhar. This is the third time that China has put a “technical hold” on banning Azhar.On the significance that the proposal this time was moved by the US, Chinese Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Lu Kang today said, “Whoever submitted the request we believe all members of the committee will act in line with regulations of the Security Council and its affiliations.” He was dismissive on whether China was protecting Azhar at Pakistan’s behest.