China welcomes Pakistan, India's overture for peace

BEIJING: China on Wednesday welcomed the recent statements of Prime Minister Imran Khan and his Indian counterpart Narendra Modi to find a peaceful solution to all long-standing disputes souring ties between the two neighbors. 

“We have noticed relevant reports and welcomed the positive attitude of the Pakistani and Indian leaders in improving bilateral relations,” China’s Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lu Kang said at a regular press briefing in Beijing.

He said Pakistan and India are important countries in South Asia. Improved bilateral ties are crucial to peace, stability and prosperity in the region, he added.

“As a common neighbour of Pakistan and India, China firmly supports Pakistan and India to strengthen dialogue, enhance mutual trust, properly control and resolve differences, and work together for regional peace and development while China is willing to continue to play a constructive role in this regard,” Mr Kang said.

Earlier, a senior official of the United States government has hailed Prime Minister Imran Khan’s statement on the importance of peace on both sides of Pakistan’s borders.

Addressing a press conference, United States Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary for South and Central Asian Affairs Alice Wells emphasised that Pakistan has a critical role to play in the long-term stability of Afghanistan.

“We encourage Pakistan to take stronger steps to ensure that the Taliban comes to the negotiating table. Both Pakistan and Afghanistan embarked an effort to improve their ties for negotiating a solidarity document which we strongly support,” she said.

“We look forward to working with the new government. We welcome Imran Khan’s words when he discussed the importance of having peace on both sides of the borders.”