Senior BJP leader and the Leader of the Opposition Sushma Swaraj on Friday called on visiting Chinese Prime Minister Wen Jiabao and discussed issues, including the contentious issue of stapled visas being issued to people of Jammu and Kashmir. Ms Swaraj also expressed her concern over Chinese incursions into Arunachal Pradesh, saying this was not fair as the state is a part of India.
“Swaraj firmly conveyed to the Chinese Prime Minister that the stapled visas being issued to Kashmiris should be stopped forthwith,” BJP chief spokesperson Ravi Shankar Prasad said. Mr Wen enquired about former Prime Minister A.B. Vajpayee’s health and recalled his visit to China during the NDA regime.
The BJP also reacted to Chinese statements that it was neutral to both India and Pakistan.
“Swaraj told the Chinese premier that India is a victim and Pakistan a perpetrator of terrorism so how can the two be treated equally,” Mr Prasad said.
The Leader of the Opposition also requested Mr Wen to allow Indian pharmaceutical and software companies access to the Chinese market.