China Urges Calm Amid Rising Tensions Between India and Pakistan Following Terror Attack

China's Call for Restraint

Beijing: On Monday, China expressed its support for measures aimed at de-escalating tensions between India and Pakistan, particularly in light of the recent terror attack in Pahalgam. The Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson, Guo Jiakun, emphasized the importance of a 'swift and fair investigation' into the incident, which resulted in the deaths of 26 individuals, primarily tourists.

Guo stated, 'China welcomes all efforts that contribute to cooling down the current situation and supports prompt and equitable investigations.' However, he refrained from confirming whether China would participate in the investigation, despite reports suggesting that Pakistan had requested involvement from both China and Russia.

When questioned about the credibility of any investigation, given Pakistan's history of alleged support for cross-border terrorism in Jammu and Kashmir, Guo sidestepped the issue.

As a neighboring country to both India and Pakistan, China hopes for restraint from both sides and encourages them to resolve their differences through dialogue and consultation, thereby maintaining regional peace and stability.

Guo highlighted the significance of peaceful coexistence between India and Pakistan for the overall development of South Asia.

Following the brutal attack in Pahalgam, which China condemned on April 23, the first official communication regarding the escalating tensions came after a call from Pakistani Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar to China's top diplomat, Wang Yi.

During this call, Dar updated Wang on the situation following the terrorist attack in Kashmir, as reported by state-run Global Times.

Wang reiterated China's commitment to closely monitor the developments, underscoring that combating terrorism is a collective global responsibility while reaffirming China's unwavering support for Pakistan's counterterrorism initiatives.

'As a steadfast ally and strategic partner, China fully comprehends Pakistan's legitimate security concerns and backs its efforts to protect its sovereignty and security interests,' Wang stated.

He also advocated for a prompt and fair investigation, asserting that conflict does not align with the fundamental interests of either nation and is detrimental to regional peace.

Despite these discussions, there was no mention of India's response to the suspension of the 1960 Indus Water Treaty, which has caused significant concern in Pakistan, as it is crucial for their water supply.

In the wake of the Pahalgam attack, India announced the suspension of the Indus Water Treaty and downgraded diplomatic relations with Pakistan.

In retaliation, Pakistan threatened to suspend the Simla Agreement and halt other bilateral agreements, also closing its airspace to Indian airlines and warning that any diversion of water under the treaty would be viewed as an act of war.

According to a report from Xinhua, Dar emphasized Pakistan's commitment to combating terrorism and its intention to manage the situation responsibly while maintaining communication with China and the global community.