‘Security concerns valid’: China backs Pakistan amid escalating tensions after Pahalgam attack

Wang-Yi

China on Sunday said that it is “closely following" the escalating tensions between India and Pakistan following the Pahalgam terror attack, calling for an “impartial investigation" to be initiated promptly.

The statement came from Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi during a phone conversation with Pakistan’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Muhammad Ishaq Dar.

During their call, Yi stressed that Beijing hopes both nations will exercise restraint, engage in dialogue, and work towards de-escalating tensions. He also stated that combating terrorism is a shared responsibility of all nations, and reaffirmed China’s consistent support for Pakistan’s strong counter-terrorism efforts, Global Times reported.

“China has always supported Pakistan in its resolute anti-terrorism actions. As a staunch friend and all-weather strategic partner, China fully understands Pakistan’s reasonable security concerns and supports Pakistan in safeguarding its sovereignty and security interests,” Wang was quoted as saying in the Chinese readout.

Earlier today, Pakistan’s Deputy PM held a phone conversation with Yi to discuss the rising tensions with India following the terror attack in Pahalgam. In a statement posted on X, Pakistan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs confirmed the call and stated that Dar briefed Yi on the regional situation.

“He categorically rejected India’s unilateral and illegal actions, as well as its baseless propaganda against Pakistan," the post added.

The Pakistan’s Foreign Ministry also added that Dar expressed appreciation for China’s continued support and reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to their “iron-clad" friendship and the shared vision of an All-Weather Strategic Cooperative Partnership.

The statement added that both sides reiterated their commitment to promoting regional peace and stability, mutual respect, and opposition to unilateralism and hegemonic policies.

“Both sides reiterated their firm resolve to uphold regional peace and stability, promote mutual respect and understanding, and jointly oppose unilateralism and hegemonic policies. They agreed to maintain close communication and coordination at all levels to advance their shared objectives of peace, security, and sustainable development in the region and beyond," it added.

The conversation comes amid heightened India-Pakistan tensions following the 22 April terror attack in the tourist town of Pahalgam, located in Jammu and Kashmir’s Anantnag district. Twenty-six people, mostly holidaymakers from other Indian states, were shot dead in what has been described as the worst attack on civilians in the region in 25 years.

This has sparked nationwide outrage and drew condemnation from world leaders, including China, which stated it “opposes terrorism in all its forms."

India has accused Pakistan of backing “cross-border terrorism" and claimed the attackers were linked to Pakistan-based militant groups. Islamabad has denied any involvement, calling the allegations “frivolous" and warning it would respond to any retaliatory move by India.