India on Monday said it would seek independent verification of reports suggesting the presence of Chinese troops in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK). “If the reports are true, it could be a matter of serious concern and we will do all that is necessary to ensure the safety and security of the nation,” said Foreign Office spokesperson Vishnu Prakash when asked about the news reports.
A report in the New York Times has claimed an ‘influx' of 7,000 to 11,000 soldiers of the People's Liberation Army in the Gilgit-Baltistan region in PoK where independent verification is difficult due to restricted access. Mr. Prakash said the government welcomed Pakistan's decision to accept Indian aid through the United Nations. “We would be in touch with the UN agencies concerned to work out the modalities of routing the aid to Pakistan,” he added.
