China has welcomed the ceasefire between India and Pakistan and expressed its willingness to play a constructive role in maintaining peace and stability in the region, according Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian.
"China has noted the reports. The ceasefire between India and Pakistan serves the fundamental and long-term interests of both countries, contributes to regional peace and stability, and reflects the common aspirations of the international community. China supports and welcomes this," Lin said during a regular briefing on Monday.
He said that India and Pakistan are, and will always remain, neighburs - as is China to both countries.
"Since the onset of tensions, China has maintained close communication with relevant parties and has consistently called on both countries to remain calm, exercise restraint, and avoid further escalation," he added.
Lin further said that on the night of May 10, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi held telephone conversations with Pakistan's Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar as well as India's National Security Advisor Ajit Doval to promote de-escalation and the realization of a full and lasting ceasefire. Both sides responded positively, he said.
China hopes that India and Pakistan will consolidate and continue the ceasefire momentum, avoid further conflict, properly handle differences through dialogue and negotiation and return to the path of political settlement, he added.
The spokesperson said that China stands ready to continue keeping communication with India and Pakistan and play a constructive role in realizing full and lasting ceasefire and keeping the region peaceful and stable.
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