China’s Strategic Diplomacy in South Asia: Backing Pakistan While Urging Calm with India

China praises Pakistan’s restraint after ceasefire with India, while downplaying terror links—highlighting its strategic tilt toward Islamabad.

Pakistani Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi   and Indian National Security Advisor Ajit Doval.

In the wake of the recent India-Pakistan ceasefire agreement, China has adopted a nuanced diplomatic stance, simultaneously reaffirming its longstanding alliance with Pakistan while urging restraint and dialogue between the two nuclear-armed neighbours.

Support for Pakistan Amidst Regional Tensions

Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi engaged in separate phone conversations with Pakistani Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar and Indian National Security Advisor Ajit Doval. In his discussion with Dar, Wang reiterated China's unwavering support for Pakistan's sovereignty and territorial integrity, describing the bilateral relationship as an "iron-clad" partnership. He commended Pakistan's "restraint and responsible approach" under challenging circumstances, emphasizing China's commitment to standing by Islamabad.

Also read - Indian Navy Conducts Missile Drills Near Pakistan Amid Rising Tensions

Condemnation of Terrorism and Call for Dialogue

Simultaneously, Wang condemned the April 22 terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Indian-administered Kashmir, which resulted in the deaths of 26 civilians, including 25 tourists. After which Indian armed forces air-stroked 9 terrorist camps supported by the Pakistani military. 

Later, Pakistan violated the ceasefire and started artillery shelling along the International borde(IB). Which furthermore escalated the military tensions between the two neighbours. 

However,  Wang Yi expressed China's opposition to all forms of terrorism and underscored the importance of peace and stability in Asia. Wang urged both India and Pakistan to exercise restraint, resolve differences through dialogue, and avoid further escalation.

Also read - Pakistan Appoints ISI Chief Asim Malik as NSA Amid Rising Tensions with India

China's Strategic Calculus

Experts interpret China's dual approach as a strategic balancing act. While Beijing maintains its strong ties with Pakistan, it also recognizes the necessity of regional stability and the potential risks of escalating tensions between India and Pakistan. China's calls for dialogue and restraint reflect its broader interest in preserving peace and preventing conflict in the region.

International Mediation Efforts

The ceasefire agreement, announced on May 10, followed a period of intense cross-border hostilities, including missile and drone attacks that resulted in over 50 civilian deaths. International mediation played a crucial role in facilitating the truce, with active involvement from the United States, United Kingdom, China, and Gulf countries. 

U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio confirmed the agreement and praised both nations' leadership for choosing peace.

Also read - Indian Army Responds to Pakistan's LoC Ceasefire Breaches After Pahalgam Terror Attack

Ongoing Tensions and the Path Forward

Despite the ceasefire, sporadic violations and mutual accusations have persisted, indicating that tensions remain high. Both India and Pakistan have mobilized military forces near the border, and the Indus Waters Treaty remains suspended. 

International actors, including the G7, have called for immediate de-escalation and continued dialogue to prevent further conflict.

As the situation develops, China's diplomatic efforts will continue to be pivotal in shaping the trajectory of India-Pakistan relations and regional stability in South Asia.

(This is a developing story)