Why does China block sanctions at the UN against the Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM) chief, Masood Azhar?
China has historically blocked or delayed sanctions against the Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM) chief, Masood Azhar, at the United Nations for several reasons:
Diplomatic and Strategic Alliances
China has a strong and long-standing alliance with Pakistan, often referred to as an "all-weather friendship." This relationship is a significant factor in China's decisions regarding UN sanctions against Pakistani-based terrorists. China has consistently supported Pakistan's interests and has used its veto power as a permanent member of the UN Security Council to protect its ally234.
Political and Geopolitical Considerations
China's actions are also influenced by geopolitical considerations, particularly in the context of its rivalry with India. Blocking sanctions against Masood Azhar has been seen as a way for China to counter India's global interests and maintain a balance of power in the region. The border disputes and historical tensions between India and China further complicate this dynamic23.
Technical and Procedural Reasons
China has often cited the need for more time to assess the proposals and the necessity for consensus among all parties. This has been used as a procedural reason to delay or block the sanctions. For instance, China has stated that it needs to study the revised materials and consider the opinions of relevant parties before making a decision23.
Avoiding Isolation and International Pressure
In 2019, China lifted its technical hold on the proposal to sanction Masood Azhar after significant international pressure, particularly following the Pulwama attack in India. This shift was attributed to China's concerns about being isolated diplomatically and the need to maintain a cooperative stance in international counter-terrorism efforts134.
Face-Saving Measures for Pakistan
When China did eventually support the sanctions against Masood Azhar, it was after revisions to the proposal that avoided direct references to the Pulwama attack and terrorism in Kashmir, which was seen as a face-saving measure for Pakistan3.
In summary, China's blocking or delaying of sanctions against Masood Azhar is driven by a combination of diplomatic loyalty to Pakistan, geopolitical considerations, procedural reasons, and the need to navigate international pressure while maintaining its strategic interests.