In a major diplomatic development, China has voiced its support for Pakistan and Afghanistan’s 48-hour ceasefire, calling on both nations to exercise restraint and work towards a full and lasting peace. The announcement came from the Chinese Foreign Ministry on Thursday, following escalating border tensions between the two countries.
During a press briefing, Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Lin Jian stated that “China supports both Pakistan and Afghanistan in exercising restraint and realizing a full and lasting ceasefire.” He added that China stands ready to play a constructive role in improving relations between the neighboring countries and ensuring long-term regional stability.
The temporary ceasefire, announced by Pakistan’s Foreign Office (FO) on Wednesday, came after days of border hostilities. According to the FO, the truce was mutually agreed upon with the Afghan Taliban regime for the next 48 hours, starting from 6 PM Wednesday, at the request of the Taliban authorities.
“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 said.
In a parallel statement, Taliban spokesperson Zabiullah Mujahid confirmed on X (formerly Twitter) that Afghan forces had been instructed to respect the ceasefire “unless any aggression takes place.” Officials along the Pakistan-Afghanistan border reported that “no violence was reported overnight, and the ceasefire remains in effect.”
Meanwhile, UN Human Rights Chief Volker Turk welcomed the ceasefire, urging both sides to prioritize civilian safety and move towards a lasting peace.
The ceasefire announcement followed Pakistan’s precision strikes in Afghanistan’s Kandahar and Kabul provinces, as reported by PTV News and Dawn. The Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) also confirmed that Pakistani forces had repelled an Afghan Taliban attack along the Balochistan border, neutralizing several militants.
This latest episode marks the third major border clash within a week, with escalating tensions causing concern for regional security. Islamabad continues to call on Kabul to stop terrorist groups like the TTP from using Afghan soil to attack Pakistan, while Afghanistan denies these allegations.
China’s timely statement reflects Beijing’s growing diplomatic role in regional peace efforts, highlighting its interest in stability across South Asia. As tensions simmer, global observers hope this ceasefire marks the beginning of a long-term resolution between the two nations.
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