China on Tuesday reaffirmed its steadfast support for Pakistan’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, with Foreign Minister Wang Yi stating that Beijing will stand by its “ironclad friend”. He also called for restraint in the India-Pakistan conflict.
Wang made these remarks during a meeting with Pakistani Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar in Beijing.
The visit occurred shortly after Pakistan urged India for a ceasefire following Operation Sindoor, during which India conducted targeted strikes on terror infrastructure in Pakistan and PoK in retaliation for the Pahalgam terror attack.
When Pakistani Army attacked civilians in India while intervening on behalf of the terrorists, Indian armed forces retaliated by striking its Pakistan Air Force’s airbases and artillery positions, causing extensive damage and leading to military casualties.
Wang emphasised China’s support for Pakistan in safeguarding its interests, combating terrorism and playing a larger role in regional and international affairs. He also mentioned China’s commitment to building a “China-Pakistan community with a shared future”.
“As an ironclad friend, China will, as always, firmly support Pakistan in safeguarding its national sovereignty and territorial integrity, in exploring a development path suited to its national conditions, in resolutely combating terrorism, and in playing a greater role in international and regional affairs”, state-run Global Times quoted Wang as telling Dar.
Both sides discussed expanding cooperation under a new version of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), including in energy, minerals, agriculture, industry and security.
Dar briefed Wang on the situation post-ceasefire and expressed gratitude to Beijing for its support during the conflict. He reiterated Pakistan’s commitment to defending its sovereignty while maintaining diplomatic channels with India.
Dar also reaffirmed support for the one-China principle and expressed Pakistan’s desire to deepen cooperation in various sectors. He addressed the recurring militant attacks on Chinese nationals in Pakistan and pledged increased efforts to protect Chinese personnel and projects.
Besides Wang, Dar also met Liu Jianchao, the influential Minister of the International Department of the Communist Party of China (IDCPC) and discussed issues arising out of the India-Pakistan military conflict besides New Delhi’s decision to keep the 1960 Indus Water Treaty in abeyance.
