Prof. Cheng Xizhong, a Senior Research Fellow at the Charhar Institute, on Monday dismissed an Indian military officer’s allegation that China fully supported Pakistan during the recent India-Pakistan conflict, calling the claim baseless. He reaffirmed that China and Pakistan maintain a traditional friendship, and their defense cooperation is routine and not directed at any third party.
Cheng emphasized that China has consistently maintained an objective and impartial stance on the India-Pakistan conflict. China has actively worked to promote peace talks and preserve regional stability through various diplomatic means.
Firstly, he pointed out that Chinese leaders and diplomats have regularly engaged both India and Pakistan through bilateral meetings, phone calls, and speeches on global platforms, urging restraint and advocating dialogue as the only peaceful solution. At international forums like the United Nations and the Shanghai Cooperation Organization, China has consistently called for diplomatic engagement.
Secondly, Cheng noted that China has promoted regional peace through multilateral platforms such as the SCO and BRICS, advocating collective security approaches and encouraging multilateral mechanisms to play a constructive role in South Asia’s stability.
China has also supported UN mediation efforts, respected UN Security Council resolutions, and encouraged the global community to maintain a balanced stance to enable meaningful India-Pakistan dialogue, rather than deepening tensions.
Thirdly, Cheng stressed that while maintaining close ties with Pakistan, China also seeks to strengthen constructive relations with India. By enhancing cooperation in trade, culture, and technology, China aims to foster mutual understanding and trust, providing a political foundation for resolving disputes.
He added that initiatives like the Belt and Road, particularly the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor, contribute to regional development, reduce poverty, and help eliminate the root causes of conflict by boosting economic stability and livelihoods.
Fourthly, Cheng asserted that China firmly opposes foreign interference in South Asia, particularly actions like arms sales or pressure tactics that escalate tensions. He criticized efforts by certain regional powers to portray China as biased, stressing that Beijing’s actions are guided by the goal of maintaining peace and stability.
Lastly, Cheng reiterated that China believes India and Pakistan should maintain normal bilateral relations for the benefit of their peoples and the region. China remains committed to a fair and constructive role in facilitating dialogue and resolving differences for lasting peace and prosperity in South Asia.
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