'China willing to help ease Pak-Afghan tensions'

China on Monday said it was willing to continue playing a constructive role in promoting the improvement and development of Pakistan-Afghanistan relations.

China sincerely hopes that Pakistan and Afghanistan will focus on the broader picture, remain calm and restrained, adhere to resolving mutual concerns through dialogue and consultation, avoid escalating conflicts, and jointly maintain peace and stability in both countries and the region, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian said in a statement.

In response to a question during his regular press briefing, he said, "We are deeply concerned about" recent confrontation between Pakistan and Afghanistan.