China on Monday welcomed the recent ceasefire agreement between India and Pakistan, voicing strong support for the initiative and expressing readiness to play a constructive role in ensuring a lasting peace between the two South Asian neighbors.
“The realization of a ceasefire between India and Pakistan serves the fundamental and long-term interests of both countries, promotes regional peace and stability, and aligns with the broader expectations of the international community,” said Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian at a regular press briefing in Beijing.
Lin emphasized that India and Pakistan are not only geographically inseparable neighbors but also share a border with China. He noted that since tensions escalated, China has maintained close contact with both sides, urging restraint and advocating for dialogue.
“China encourages both countries to build on the momentum of the ceasefire, avoid any further escalation, and resolve their disputes through dialogue and negotiation,” Lin stated. “We are ready to continue engaging with both India and Pakistan and contribute positively to a comprehensive and enduring peace.”
Meanwhile, in Islamabad, Pakistan’s Defence Minister Khawaja Asif addressed the future of India-Pakistan dialogue, asserting that any talks must focus on three key issues: Kashmir, terrorism, and water disputes.
“If negotiations are to take place between two nuclear-armed states, they will center on these critical concerns,” he told reporters.
Asif reiterated that Pakistan has suffered the most from terrorism over the past two to three decades. “It’s ironic that the country worst hit by terrorism is being accused and even attacked over it,” he remarked.
He also called for a peaceful settlement of the Kashmir issue, describing the current ceasefire as “a golden opportunity” for both nations to move toward resolving the long-standing conflict.
