China seeks 'impartial' probe into Pahalgam attack, backs Pakistan

NEW DELHI: China has sought an "impartial" probe into the Pahalgam terror attack while backing Pakistan's "legitimate" security concerns and calling upon both India and Pakistan to exercise restraint. Chinese foreign minister Wang Yi spoke to his Pakistan counterpart Ishaq Dar Sunday and also supported Pakistan's efforts to safeguard its sovereignty and security interests.

According to a Chinese readout, Wang told Dar that as a hardcore friend and all-weather strategic partner, China fully understands the legitimate security concerns of the Pakistani side and supports it in safeguarding its sovereignty and security interests. China had earlier condemned the terrorist attack in Kashmir's Pahalgam but also worked with Pakistan last week to water down a UNSC condemnation of the April 22 attack on tourists. Wang spoke to Dar amid the threat of an armed conflict between India and Pakistan.

"China supports an impartial investigation as soon as possible, as the conflict is not in the fundamental interests of India and Pakistan, nor is it conducive to regional peace and stability . It is hoped that the two sides will exercise restraint, move towards each other and push for a cooling of the situation," said Wang, according to the Chinese foreign ministry.

Wang also told Dar China is closely following the developing situation. "The fight against terrorism is the common responsibility of all countries in the world, and China has always supported the Pakistani side in firmly implementing counter-terrorism actions," he said.

Dar was reported to have given an update on the tensions between Pakistan and India over the terror attack, saying that the Pakistani side has always been "resolute in combating terrorism and opposes actions that may lead to escalation". "The Pakistani side is committed to managing the situation in a mature manner and will maintain communication with China and the international community," said the readout.