New Delhi: India has taken strong exception to the attempt to include other countries in the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC). A warning tone from India said that the project passes through illegally occupied Indian territory and such a move would be illegal and unacceptable. India's statement comes at a time when the participation of third countries in the disputed CPEC is being proposed.

In fact, External Affairs Ministry spokesperson Arindam Bagchi has said that we have seen reports encouraging the proposed participation of third countries in the so-called CPEC project. Any such action by either party shall be deemed to be a direct violation of the sovereignty and territorial integrity of India. India will treat it as illegal. Such activities are inherently illegal, illegitimate and unacceptable.

The external affairs ministry's statement came at a time when it was reported that Pakistan and China have invited third countries to join the multi-billion dollar CPEC project. The move was taken last week at the third meeting of the CPEC's Joint Working Group on International Cooperation and Coordination. The joint meeting between Pakistan and China on CPEC was held virtually last week.

National Herald case: When Sonia-Rahul are 76 per cent shareholders, who will be questioned?

You set up industries in Bihar, it is our responsibility to make it successful: Shahnawaz Hussain

'If work is not good, I will smash head', says this minister