BEIJING: China on Wednesday said it is ready to play a constructive role in easing tensions between India and Pakistan following recent hostilities, urging both nuclear-armed neighbors to act with restraint and prioritize regional stability.
Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian, addressing a regular press briefing, stated, “China finds India’s military operation early this morning regrettable,” in reference to Indian strikes that have triggered a sharp response from Islamabad.
He reiterated China’s concern over the escalation and called on both parties to avoid actions that could further complicate the situation. “India and Pakistan are and will always be each other’s neighbors. They are both China’s neighbors as well,” Lin said, emphasizing Beijing’s stake in South Asian peace and security.
“China opposes all forms of terrorism and urges both sides to act in the larger interest of peace and stability, remain calm, exercise restraint, and refrain from taking actions that may further complicate the situation,” he added.
Regarding the safety of Chinese nationals amid the conflict, Lin said Beijing is closely monitoring developments. “We advise Chinese citizens and institutions in the relevant regions to closely follow the situation, raise their safety awareness, avoid going to regions involved in the conflict, and in case of emergencies, immediately contact the Chinese missions to seek help.”
Responding to further questions, Lin reiterated China’s consistent and principled position on the India-Pakistan dispute. “The international community is following closely the current situation and China is committed to promoting talks for peace and keeping the region peaceful and stable,” he said.
He noted that both India and Pakistan have publicly stated they do not wish to see an escalation. “We hope that India and Pakistan will remain calm, exercise restraint, work in the same direction, and properly handle differences through dialogue and consultation,” Lin concluded.
