Key Points
- China expresses “deep concern” over the rising conflict between India and Pakistan, urging both sides to prioritize peace and stability.
- Beijing calls for restraint, a return to political dialogue, and avoidance of actions that could further escalate tensions.
- China reiterates its readiness to play a constructive, mediating role in resolving the dispute.
- Chinese embassies issue travel advisories, urging citizens in India and Pakistan to enhance safety precautions.
- The international community, including the US, echoes calls for dialogue and de-escalation.
New Delhi: Amid a dramatic escalation in hostilities between India and Pakistan, China has issued a strong appeal for calm, restraint, and a return to peaceful negotiations. Beijing’s statement comes as both nuclear-armed neighbors engage in military actions and heightened rhetoric, raising global concerns about regional stability.
Beijing “Deeply Concerned” Over Escalation
The Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson stated on Saturday that China is “closely following the ongoing situation between India and Pakistan and is deeply concerned about the escalation”. The spokesperson emphasized that both countries should act in the larger interest of peace and stability, exercise calm and restraint, and avoid any actions that could further inflame the crisis.
“We strongly urge both sides to act in the larger interest of peace and stability, exercise calm and restraint, return to the track of political settlement through peaceful means, and refrain from any action that could further escalate tensions. This will be important for the fundamental interest of both India and Pakistan, and for a stable and peaceful region. This is also what the international community hopes to see. China is willing to continue to play a constructive role to this end,” said the Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson.
Beijing Offers to Mediate
China reiterated its willingness to play a “constructive role” in brokering peace between India and Pakistan, signaling openness to diplomatic engagement or mediation if both sides agree. This offer aligns with Beijing’s broader regional interests and its close strategic partnership with Pakistan, as well as its growing economic and security ties with India.
Safety Advisory for Chinese Nationals
In light of the escalating conflict, Chinese embassies in both India and Pakistan have issued advisories urging Chinese citizens to closely monitor the situation, exercise caution, and enhance personal safety measures. Citizens are advised to avoid traveling to conflict-affected areas and to contact embassies in case of emergencies.
Global Calls for De-escalation
China’s call for restraint is echoed by the United States, which has also offered to assist in facilitating direct talks between India and Pakistan to prevent further miscalculation and conflict. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio held calls with both countries’ top diplomats and Pakistan’s army chief, urging immediate steps toward de-escalation and renewed communication.
The latest round of tensions follows India’s precision strikes on terror launchpads in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir on May 7, in retaliation for a deadly terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir’s Pahalgam on April 22. Since then, both sides have reported missile and drone attacks, airspace closures, and increased military alertness.
