Question : VISIT OF GENERAL PERVEZ MUSHARRAF TO CHINA

(a) Whether the attention of the Government has been drawn to the news-item captioned `Terrorism, Kashmir to dominate Sino-Pak talks` appearing in the Hindustan Times dated January 17, 2000;

(b) if so, whether the Government are aware about the recent visit of General Pervez Musharraf to China;

(c) if so, whether his visit comes against the backdrop of sharp exchanges between India and Pakistan over the hijacking of the Indian Airlines Plane on December 24, 1999;

(d) if so, whether General Musharraf got support from China; and

(e) if so, the reaction of the Government in this regard?

MINISTER OF STATE FOR EXTERNAL AFFAIRS

(SHRI AJIT KUMAR PANJA)

(a)-(b) Yes, Sir.

(c)-(e) Government have noted the reported statements of Chinese leaders during the visit of General Pervez Musharraf, that the Chinese Government would continue to foster its comprehensive partnership with Pakistan. Government continue to closely monitor developments in the region which have a bearing on India`s security and take all steps to safeguard its national interests.