In a phone conversation on Saturday, May 10, 2025, National Security Advisor (NSA) Ajit Doval conveyed to Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi that "war was not India's choice" following the terrorist attack in Pahalgam. Doval condemned the April 22 attack, which resulted in significant casualties among Indian personnel, and emphasized India's need to take counter-terrorism actions.
Wang Yi, in turn, condemned the Pahalgam terrorist attack and reiterated China's opposition to all forms of terrorism. He acknowledged Doval's statement that war is not in India's interest and expressed hope that India and Pakistan would maintain calm and restraint, manage their differences through dialogue, and prevent further escalation. Wang also reaffirmed China's support for the ceasefire between India and Pakistan and offered Beijing's assistance in promoting peace.
The conversation occurred amidst escalating tensions and reported ceasefire violations between India and Pakistan. Just hours after a ceasefire agreement was announced, it reportedly collapsed, with Pakistan allegedly resuming artillery shelling and drone activity along the International Border and Line of Control. However, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar announced that an "understanding" had been reached to stop military action and firing. Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri later stated that Pakistan had committed "repeated violations" of the understanding.
Doval stated that India and Pakistan would be committed to a ceasefire and look forward to restoring regional peace and stability as soon as possible. Wang Yi expressed China's support for a comprehensive and lasting ceasefire achieved through consultation, emphasizing that it serves the fundamental interests of both countries and aligns with the international community's wishes.
India has long maintained a firm stance against terrorism. Following the Pahalgam attack, India took several diplomatic actions against Pakistan, including suspending the Indus Waters Treaty, revoking certain visas for Pakistani citizens, freezing imports from Pakistan, and nixing postal links. India also launched "Operation Sindoor" targeting terror sites in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. Despite the agreement to halt military action, India has asserted that its stance on terrorism remains uncompromised and that any future act of terror will be considered an act of war.
China and India have a complex relationship characterized by both cooperation and competition. While the two countries have sought economic cooperation and have a long history of cultural exchange, they also face border disputes and economic nationalism. In October 2024, India and China reached an agreement regarding patrolling arrangements along the Line of Actual Control (LAC), leading to disengagement and resolution of a long-running conflict. Despite this, the situation on the LAC is still not normal.
Tensions remain, but there have been positive developments in Sino-Indian ties, including the resumption of direct flights and the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra. Both countries also recognize the need for a manageable relationship to avoid crises.
