China welcomes Pak-Afghan ceasefire, condemns killing of Iranian leaders

BEIJING: China on Thursday welcomed the temporary ceasefire between Pakistan and Afghanistan while strongly condemning the killing of Iranian leaders and attacks on civilians, according to statements from Chinese official sources.

Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian said Beijing hopes both countries will “stay calm, exercise restraint, resume peace talks as soon as possible” and achieve a comprehensive and lasting ceasefire while resolving disputes through dialogue.

He noted that China has been actively mediating through its own diplomatic channels and is willing to continue playing a constructive role in easing tensions, highlighting recent shuttle diplomacy by Beijing’s special envoy between Islamabad and Kabul.

Chinese sources emphasised that Pakistan and Afghanistan, as “neighbours that cannot be moved away,” must rely on dialogue and consultation as the only effective path to resolving differences and ensuring regional stability.

On the Middle East situation, Lin strongly condemned the reported killing of Iranian leaders, including Ali Larijani, and attacks on civilian targets, stressing that such actions are “by no means acceptable” and reiterating China’s consistent opposition to the use of force in international relations.

He said Beijing was “shocked” by statements suggesting targeted killings of Iranian officials and warned that escalating hostilities risk pushing the region “out of control,” urging an immediate halt to military operations.

China further called for an early ceasefire in the Middle East, respect for sovereignty, and a return to political and diplomatic solutions, warning that continued conflict is causing severe humanitarian crises across the region.

Reaffirming its broader stance, Beijing said it would continue to promote dialogue, support mediation efforts by regional countries, and work to prevent further escalation while safeguarding regional peace and stability.