Beijing – Following the deadly terror attack in Pahalgam that claimed 28 lives, China has called on India and Pakistan to exercise restraint and prioritize peace, while reiterating its support for Pakistan’s security interests. The appeal for de-escalation was made by Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi during a phone conversation with Pakistan’s Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar.
The April 22 attack targeted a group of tourists near Pahalgam in Jammu and Kashmir. The Resistance Front, a militant group claiming to be an affiliate of the Pakistan-based Lashkar-e-Taiba, has claimed responsibility for the assault.
China, a key ally of Pakistan, expressed serious concern over the situation. In a statement released by the Chinese foreign ministry, Wang Yi reaffirmed China’s long-standing support for Pakistan, particularly in safeguarding its security and sovereignty. “China fully understands Pakistan’s reasonable security concerns and has always supported Pakistan in its resolute anti-terrorism actions,” Wang stated.
The Chinese Foreign Minister emphasized that Beijing was closely monitoring the developments and stressed the importance of an impartial investigation into the attack.
Acknowledging that confrontation would not serve the fundamental interests of any nation or contribute to regional peace and stability, Wang advised both India and Pakistan to act with prudence. “Both parties ought to cooperate and encourage the de-escalation of the situation,” he urged.
The Pahalgam attack has significantly escalated tensions between India and Pakistan. India has reportedly taken retaliatory measures, including blocking the operational Attari land border crossing and suspending the Indus Waters Treaty, a crucial water-sharing agreement.
Pakistan has strongly condemned India’s decision to suspend the treaty, warning that halting river flows would be considered an “act of war.” In response to India’s actions, Pakistan has reportedly suspended all trade with India and barred Indian airlines from using its airspace.
During his conversation with Wang Yi, Pakistan’s Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar briefed China on the heightened tensions. He reiterated Islamabad’s commitment to counterterrorism and stated that Pakistan has consistently opposed actions that could exacerbate conflict. Dar assured Wang that Pakistan remains committed to communicating with China and the international community and is dedicated to handling the matter responsibly and with maturity.
Dar also expressed gratitude to China for its unwavering support and denounced India’s “unilateral and illegal actions” and “baseless propaganda against Pakistan.”
He reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to maintaining a strong strategic partnership with China and their shared goal of regional peace and stability.
In a statement, the Pakistani foreign ministry said, “Both sides reaffirmed their resolve to oppose unilateralism and hegemonic policies.”
