China has voiced strong support for Pakistan and Afghanistan’s decision to observe a 48-hour ceasefire, urging both sides to exercise restraint and work toward a lasting peace.
Speaking at a press briefing in Beijing on Thursday, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian said China “stands ready to continue playing a constructive role” in improving ties between the two neighbours. He stressed that stability in the region is vital and that dialogue remains the most effective path forward.
The ceasefire, announced by Pakistan’s Foreign Office (FO) on Wednesday, came after days of intense border hostilities. According to the FO, the truce was mutually agreed upon by Islamabad and the Afghan Taliban “at the request of the Taliban regime” and took effect from 6 p.m. the same day.
“During this period, both sides will make sincere efforts to find a positive solution to this complex but solvable issue through constructive dialogue,” the FO stated.
Taliban spokesperson Zabiullah Mujahid confirmed on X (formerly Twitter) that Afghan forces had been ordered to respect the ceasefire “unless any aggression takes place.”
Pakistani officials along both northern and southern borders confirmed on Thursday morning that “no violence was reported overnight,” indicating that the truce was holding.
The temporary halt in fighting follows escalating tensions that saw multiple border clashes and retaliatory strikes between the two sides in recent weeks. China’s diplomatic intervention underscores its growing role as a stabilising influence in the region, particularly at a time when Islamabad and Kabul face mounting pressure to prevent further civilian casualties and cross-border violence.
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