New Delhi:
The government has said it is "independently verifying" a report in the New York Times about the presence of Chinese troops in the Gilgit region of Pakistan-occupied Kashmir, saying it would be a matter of "serious concern" if it turns out to be true.
The New York Times report says an estimated 7,000 to 11,000 soldiers of the Chinese Army are there in order to get road and rail access to the Gulf through Pakistan. (
Read: Pakistan handing over control of PoK to China?)
"We have seen media reports, we are conducting an independent enquiry. If found true, it would be a matter of serious concern and will do everything necessary to ensure the safety and security of the nation," said Vishnu Prakash, spokesperson, MEA.
The paper says: "China wants a grip on the region to assure unfettered road and rail access to the Gulf through Pakistan. It takes 16 to 25 days for Chinese oil tankers to reach the Gulf. When high-speed rail and road links through Gilgit and Baltistan are completed, China will be able to transport cargo from Eastern China to the new Chinese-built Pakistani naval bases at Gwadar, Pasni and Ormara, just east of the Gulf, within 48 hours.
Many of the PLA soldiers entering Gilgit-Baltistan are expected to work on the railroad. Some are extending the Karakoram Highway, built to link China's Sinkiang Province with Pakistan. Others are working on dams, expressways and other projects."