Recent developments indicate a renewed emphasis on de-escalation between India and Pakistan, with China playing a prominent role in urging both nations to maintain peace. Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi has been actively engaging with senior officials from both countries, advocating for a comprehensive and lasting ceasefire.
On Saturday, May 10, 2025, Wang Yi spoke with India's National Security Advisor (NSA) Ajit Doval, expressing China's hope that India and Pakistan will exercise restraint and properly handle their differences through dialogue and consultation to avoid escalating the situation. Wang Yi also condemned the terrorist attack in Pahalgam and said that China opposes all forms of terrorism. Doval conveyed to Wang that the attacks in Pahalgam resulted in serious casualties for the Indian side, necessitating counter-terrorism actions. Doval also stated that war is not in the interest of either side, and that both India and Pakistan will be committed to a ceasefire and look forward to restoring regional peace and stability as soon as possible.
In a separate discussion with Pakistan's Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Mohammad Ishaq Dar, Wang Yi conveyed China's concern over the conflict's escalation, expressing sympathy for civilian casualties in Pakistan. He affirmed China's support for Pakistan in safeguarding its national sovereignty and dignity, expressing confidence that Pakistan will respond to the situation calmly and make decisions aligned with its long-term interests. Dar stated that Pakistan is willing to achieve a ceasefire with India but will respond to any acts that violate its sovereignty and territorial integrity.
Wang Yi emphasized the importance of upholding a ceasefire once it is reached to prevent the recurrence of conflicts, adding that a lasting ceasefire serves the interests of both sides, contributes to regional peace and stability, and meets the common expectations of the international community.
China has urged both countries to prioritize regional peace and stability, remain calm and restrained, and return to peaceful means of resolving issues. China is closely monitoring the situation and is deeply concerned about the escalation in fighting. China has said that the ongoing conflict does not serve the fundamental interests of either India or Pakistan, nor does it contribute to regional peace and stability.
These diplomatic efforts follow a period of heightened tensions, including the April 22 terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir's Pahalgam, which triggered increased fighting between India and Pakistan. The international community has expressed concerns about the situation, and China's proactive engagement reflects its commitment to regional stability.
