Beijing, May 11 — Amid rising tensions between India and Pakistan following the deadly terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir’s Pahalgam, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi engaged in high-level diplomatic discussions with India’s National Security Advisor Ajit Doval and Pakistan's Prime Minister Mohammad Ishaq Dar, calling for calm, dialogue, and a lasting ceasefire.
China Condemns Terror Attack, Backs Ceasefire
Wang Yi condemned the April 22 terror attack in Pahalgam, which claimed 26 lives and triggered one of the worst escalations between the two nuclear-armed neighbours in recent years. The Chinese foreign minister acknowledged the attack's cross-border linkages and reiterated China's firm opposition to terrorism in all forms.In his call with NSA Doval, Wang said China supports India and Pakistan resolving their differences through dialogue and expressed hope that both countries would remain calm, exercise restraint, and prevent further escalation.
India Reiterates Counter-Terrorism Priority
Ajit Doval conveyed to Wang that “war is not India’s choice,” but emphasized that India was compelled to take counter-terrorism action following the Pahalgam attack. He underscored that the incident led to severe casualties and necessitated a strong response.Doval assured Wang that India remains committed to the ceasefire agreement reached on May 10, and is hopeful of restoring peace and stability in the region.
China Calls for Lasting Peace
Wang Yi stated that peace and stability in Asia are “hard-won and deserve to be cherished.” He emphasized that India and Pakistan, as neighbours of China, share a responsibility to work toward lasting peace.He said a comprehensive ceasefire aligns with the fundamental interests of both nations and reflects the expectations of the international community.
Dialogue with Pakistan PM Dar
In a separate call, Wang spoke with Pakistan's Prime Minister Mohammad Ishaq Dar. He encouraged Pakistan to act in accordance with its long-term interests and reaffirmed China's support for Pakistan's counter-terrorism efforts.PM Dar told Wang that while Pakistan is committed to the ceasefire, it will respond to any violations of its sovereignty and territorial integrity. He reiterated Pakistan’s frontline role in combating global terrorism.
China’s Stand on the Escalation
Ahead of the ceasefire agreement, China had expressed deep concern over the conflict and urged both nations to de-escalate. In a statement, the Chinese foreign ministry called on India and Pakistan to “act in the larger interest of peace and stability” and avoid actions that could worsen tensions.China reiterated its willingness to play a constructive role in promoting a political resolution and regional stability.
The recent diplomatic exchanges come in the wake of intense drone and missile strikes over four days, culminating in the May 10 understanding between India and Pakistan to halt all military actions across land, air, and sea with immediate effect.
