China has extended strong support for the temporary ceasefire between Pakistan and Afghanistan, describing it as a crucial step toward peace following days of escalating border clashes.
At a regular press briefing in Beijing, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian said China welcomes the truce and encourages both sides to exercise maximum restraint while engaging in constructive dialogue. He emphasized that peaceful relations between Islamabad and Kabul are essential for long-term regional stability and shared prosperity.
“This serves the common interests of both countries and contributes to peace and stability across the entire region,” Lin stated.
Beijing Urges Calm and Dialogue Between Islamabad and Kabul
The spokesperson reiterated that China has always advocated for peaceful coexistence and dialogue-based conflict resolution among neighboring countries. Lin urged both Pakistan and Afghanistan to avoid further escalation and instead focus on achieving a comprehensive and durable ceasefire.
“Pakistan and Afghanistan are both friendly neighbors of China and inseparable neighbors to one another,” he noted. “We hope both sides will remain calm, show restraint, and return to the path of political settlement.”
His remarks followed a week of heightened military tensions along the Pakistan-Afghanistan border, where airstrikes and ground clashes resulted in casualties and strained diplomatic ties.
China’s Role as a Regional Stabilizer
China reaffirmed its willingness to play a constructive role in facilitating improved relations between the two nations. Lin Jian said Beijing is ready to support peace efforts that strengthen mutual trust and enhance cooperation on security and development.
As a close ally of both Pakistan and Afghanistan, China maintains significant diplomatic and economic influence in the region. Its position reflects a broader policy of non-interference coupled with proactive mediation, particularly through multilateral platforms such as the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO).
Beijing views stability in South and Central Asia as critical for the success of its flagship Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), which includes major projects like the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC). Peace between Islamabad and Kabul, officials argue, is essential for cross-border connectivity and trade.
Ceasefire as a Path to Long-Term Peace
The ceasefire agreement, brokered earlier this week, came after several days of hostilities involving airstrikes and ground engagements. Both sides agreed to a temporary cessation of hostilities on Wednesday, October 15, to prevent further escalation and create room for diplomatic dialogue.
China’s call for restraint aligns with its broader approach of promoting regional peace through mutual respect and economic cooperation. Officials in Beijing have consistently emphasized that dialogue, not confrontation, is the only viable solution to long-standing security issues between the two neighbors.
Lin expressed hope that the current truce would evolve into a long-term political understanding, helping restore trust and cooperation between Islamabad and Kabul.
Shared Regional Interests and the Need for Cooperation
Beijing underscored that stability in Pakistan and Afghanistan serves not only the two countries but the entire region. China believes peaceful relations will enable progress in trade, connectivity, and counterterrorism cooperation, benefiting South and Central Asia as a whole.
Analysts suggest that China’s active engagement reflects its growing diplomatic footprint in the region. By supporting peace initiatives and offering mediation, Beijing aims to prevent instability that could spill over into its western provinces or disrupt regional development projects.
China’s welcoming stance toward the Pakistan-Afghanistan ceasefire reinforces its commitment to peaceful diplomacy and regional stability. As tensions ease along the border, Beijing continues to encourage both nations to pursue dialogue and avoid further confrontation.
With its growing influence and neutral position, China is expected to remain a key player in supporting lasting peace between Pakistan and Afghanistan, a peace that serves the collective interest of the region.
