China has voiced strong support for the recently brokered 48-hour ceasefire between Pakistan and Afghanistan, calling on both countries to maintain restraint and work toward a lasting peace.
Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian, speaking at a routine press briefing, welcomed the truce and emphasized Beijing’s desire to see stability restored along the border. He said China encourages both sides to engage in dialogue and address their differences through peaceful means, underscoring the importance of maintaining regional security and cooperation.
The ceasefire followed days of heightened tension and deadly clashes along the Pakistan–Afghanistan frontier. The violence included Pakistani airstrikes and cross-border skirmishes that left dozens dead and many more injured. Islamabad said its actions were in response to repeated militant attacks originating from Afghan territory, which it claimed had forced it to act in self-defence.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif described the strikes as a necessary response to persistent aggression, stating that Pakistan had “grown tired of waiting” for action against militants operating across the border. He stressed, however, that Pakistan remains open to dialogue if the truce is upheld sincerely. “If this ceasefire is done just to buy time, we will not accept it,” he warned.
From Kabul, Afghan authorities confirmed that the ceasefire was holding and expressed hope that it would pave the way for de-escalation and direct communication between the two governments.
China, which maintains close ties with both countries, reaffirmed its willingness to play a constructive role in easing tensions and promoting mutual trust. It urged both Pakistan and Afghanistan to honour the truce in good faith and to focus on achieving a durable solution rather than a temporary pause in hostilities.
Leave a comment