Islamabad (Agencies): Chinese Ambassador Jiang Zaidong met with Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Thursday to discuss the escalating tensions between Pakistan and India, which were triggered by a recent incident in the Kashmir region.
During the meeting, Prime Minister Sharif briefed the Chinese envoy on the situation and expressed appreciation for China’s diplomatic efforts to promote peace and stability in South Asia. He reiterated Pakistan’s commitment to protecting its national sovereignty, security, and dignity, while emphasizing the importance of continued communication and coordination with all regional stakeholders to prevent further escalation.
Ambassador Jiang assured China’s support for Pakistan’s security concerns, reaffirming China’s stance on safeguarding regional stability. He advocated for a fair and impartial investigation into the Kashmir incident and urged both Pakistan and India to show restraint and work toward de-escalation.
Tensions between the two South Asian neighbors escalated following a deadly attack on tourists in Pahalgam, in Indian-administered Kashmir, earlier this month. The situation worsened when Pakistani Information Minister Attaullah Tarar claimed on social media that Pakistan had “credible intelligence” suggesting possible Indian military action within 24–36 hours—a timeframe that passed without incident.
A brief aerial standoff occurred Tuesday night when four Rafale fighter jets from the Indian Air Force conducted a high-altitude patrol near the Line of Control (LoC), prompting an immediate response from Pakistan’s Air Force.
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in remarks reported by Indian media, reaffirmed his full confidence in the armed forces, stating they had “complete operational freedom” to decide the mode, targets, and timing of India’s response to the Pahalgam attack.
Meanwhile, Pakistan’s military media wing accused India of direct involvement in terrorism within Pakistan, presenting what it called “irrefutable evidence” of state-sponsored violence.
The meeting between the Chinese Ambassador and Prime Minister Sharif comes at a critical moment, with regional tensions at a high. China’s role in diplomatic mediation may prove essential in preventing further escalation and upholding peace in South Asia.