China has once more pledged its unwavering support to Pakistan, emphasizing the value of regional stability and peace as tensions between India and Pakistan escalate further. China made this statement amid rising concerns of a possible war between these nuclear-armed neighbors over territorial disputes in Kashmir.
China’s Foreign Ministry issued a statement on Friday by its spokesperson Wang Wenbin affirming China’s steadfastness in supporting Pakistan in maintaining regional peace and security, following recent developments such as Pakistani missile tests and increased military activities along its border with India.
“China will stand with Pakistan in supporting peace, stability, and development in South Asia,” Wang stated during his regular press briefing. “We urge all parties to exercise restraint by refraining from actions which might escalate tensions further and working toward peaceful dialogue for resolution of disputes.”
China and Pakistan have long enjoyed a close diplomatic and strategic alliance characterized by deep economic ties and military collaboration. Both nations share an alliance against India’s rising regional influence; its support of Pakistan being seen as key element of South Asia’s ongoing strategic balance.
Recent developments in Kashmir, which both nations claim but administer separately, have only compounded tensions between India and Pakistan further. Its status as a flashpoint for conflict has caused constant military clashes along the Line of Control (LoC).
Pakistan’s recent test of its surface-to-surface Fatah missile, capable of carrying both conventional and nuclear warheads, further raised alarm in India. While Islamabad maintains that this test was solely defensive in nature and intended solely to ensure national security, Indian officials have expressed alarm at any possible escalation that may follow this test.
China has responded to these developments by publicly calling for a peaceful resolution of the Kashmir dispute. Beijing has encouraged both India and Pakistan to engage in dialogue in order to find mutually acceptable solutions to their differences.
Wang Wenbin stated, “China has long supported peaceful resolution of disputes through dialogue and negotiation,” Wang stated. We urge Pakistan and India to improve communication and lower tensions to avoid conflict and strife.
International observers have expressed concerns that any misstep by either side could trigger a larger regional conflict, especially given their nuclear weapons arsenals. Diplomatic efforts continue in an attempt to defuse tension, with both nations calling for de-escalation and restraint from both parties involved.
Pakistan has expressed gratitude to China for its unwavering commitment to regional peace. Prime Minister Imran Khan took to social media to thank Beijing. “We appreciate China’s unwavering dedication towards Pakistan’s security and stability,” Khan tweeted.
As both Pakistan and India remain on high alert, the international community is closely watching developments with hopes for a diplomatic breakthrough that would avert further instability in this volatile region.