BEIJING ( WNAM MONITORING): China on Thursday welcomed the temporary ceasefire between Pakistan and Afghanistan while condemning the killing of Iranian leaders and attacks on civilians, amid rising tensions in the region.
Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian made the remarks at a regular press briefing after Pakistan announced a a temporary pause against the Afghan Taliban and terrorists in the neighbouring country on request of mediating countries and the upcoming Eidul Fitr holidays.
Lin said China hopes that both countries will remain calm and restrained, resume peace talks promptly, achieve a comprehensive and lasting ceasefire as soon as possible, resolve differences through dialogue, and jointly maintain peace and stability between the two countries and in the region.
He said China appreciates the efforts made by relevant Islamic countries, and has been mediating the conflict via its own channels, adding that China is willing to continue playing a constructive role in this regard.
Lin also condemned the killing of Iranian leaders and said Beijing opposes the use of force, adding that attacks on civilian targets are “unacceptable.”
“The killing of Iranian leaders and attacks on civilian targets are by no means acceptable,” he said in response to a question.
The remarks came after reports that Ali Larijani, secretary of Iran’s Supreme National Security Council, was killed in an Israeli strike. China has repeatedly called for restraint and a peaceful resolution as the conflict intensifies.
