China on Monday praised the ceasefire agreement between India and Pakistan following days of military escalation, saying it contributes to regional peace and stability, according to Chinese state media.
“China believes that a ceasefire between India and Pakistan serves the fundamental and long-term interests of both countries, contributes to regional peace and stability, and reflects the shared expectations of the international community,” said Foreign Ministry spokesman Lin Jian, as reported by Global Times.
The statement came after New Delhi and Islamabad reached a ceasefire on Saturday, reportedly brokered by the United States, ending a week of cross-border strikes and hostilities. The tensions had escalated after a deadly attack in Indian-administered Kashmir on April 22 left 26 people dead. India blamed Pakistan-based elements for the assault and launched retaliatory strikes across the border. Pakistan denied involvement and called for a neutral investigation.
China had earlier engaged in diplomatic efforts to ease the crisis, with Foreign Minister Wang Yi holding separate talks with Pakistan’s Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar and India’s National Security Adviser Ajit Doval. Beijing reaffirmed its support for peaceful dialogue and welcomed the resolution as a positive step forward.
