Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi held talks with Indian National Security Advisor Ajit Doval and Pakistan’s Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar amid tensions between the latter two countries. China came out in support of its all-weather friend Pakistan, saying it will continue to stand by Islamabad in upholding its “sovereignty, territorial integrity, and national independence”.
While speaking to NSA Doval, Wang expressed China’s condemnation of the Pahalgam terrorist attack and its opposition to all forms of terrorism, according to a statement by the Chinese government
Doval emphasised that war is not India’s choice and does not serve the interests of any party, according to a statement by the Chinese government. China appreciated Doval’s statement that war is not India’s choice and sincerely hopes that both sides will remain calm and exercise restraint, resolve differences through dialogue and consultation, and avoid further escalation.
The Indian NSA also said during the conversation that the Pahalgam terrorist attack on April 22 had caused significant casualties in India and that the government needed to take counter-terrorism actions. In response, Wang said India and Pakistan will always be neighbours and extended support to a “comprehensive and lasting ceasefire” through negotiations.
China Extends Support To Pakistan
While speaking to Dar, Wang acknowledged Pakistan’s “restraint and appreciated its responsible approach under challenging circumstances”. He said that China, Pakistan’s iron-clad friend, will continue to stand firmly by Pakistan in upholding its sovereignty, territorial integrity, and national independence.
The Chinese Minister further said Beijing remained concerned about any escalation in the conflict, given that it shares borders with both countries.
Pakistan Breaches Ceasefire
Earlier, India and Pakistan agreed to a ceasefire after days after artillery, missile and drone strikes as tensions escalated after the Indian government launched ‘Operation Sindoor’ on May 7. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said that the Pakistani DGMO reached out to India, after which a stoppage of military action was agreed upon.
However, mere hours after the ceasefire agreement was signed, the Pakistani Army violated the agreement and opened fire in several locations across Srinagar, Udhampur, Rajouri, Akhnoor and Poonch. Drones were sighted in several locations across Jammu and Kashmir and Punjab, and blackouts were imposed by authorities. Explosions occurred every 15 minutes and were preceded by flares illuminating the dark sky, caused instantaneous alarm and confusion.
The Indian government said it was a breach of the understanding between the two countries, and that the armed forces are giving an adequate and appropriate response to these violations. “We call upon Pakistan to take appropriate steps to address these violations and deal with the situation with seriousness and responsibility,” said Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri in a late-night press conference.
