Pakistan and China have reaffirmed their commitment to regional peace and stability, condemning unilateral and hegemonic policies, as tensions between Islamabad and New Delhi escalate following a deadly attack in Indian-administered Kashmir.
Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Senator Ishaq Dar discussed the evolving regional situation during a telephone conversation with China’s Foreign Minister Wang Yi on Sunday. Both diplomats emphasised mutual respect and understanding, and agreed to maintain close communication to advance peace, security, and sustainable development in the region.
The conversation comes amid a standoff triggered by the attack in Pahalgam, which resulted in the deaths of 26 tourists. India swiftly accused Pakistan of involvement without providing evidence, implementing punitive measures including suspending the Indus Waters Treaty, revoking visas, and closing the Wagah-Attari border crossing.
Pakistan has denied any role in the attack, offering participation in a transparent investigation, and has responded by warning of suspending the Simla Agreement and potentially closing its airspace to Indian flights.
According to a statement from Pakistan’s Foreign Office, Islamabad rejected India’s “unilateral and illegal actions” and reiterated its commitment to the iron-clad Pakistan-China friendship.
Meanwhile, analysts warn that India’s military remains ill-prepared for sustained confrontation despite efforts to modernise since its 2019 clash with Pakistan. Reporting in The New York Times highlighted that a significant portion of India’s military equipment remains outdated, with only modest improvements recorded in recent years.
Experts suggest that India, under Prime Minister Narendra Modi, may opt for a limited military response—such as airstrikes or cross-border raids—to mitigate public anger while avoiding an all-out conflict. India’s defence upgrades, including acquisitions from Russia, France, and the United States, and increased investment in domestic military production, are ongoing but not yet fully realised.
Pakistan, with a leadership structure that allows greater latitude for military decision-making, has pledged to respond firmly to any Indian action. Amid the tension, analysts also note that China is observing closely, given India’s increasing border frictions with Beijing.