Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi is currently on a visit to India, where he has held key meetings with External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar and NSA Ajit Doval. The visit is being seen as significant not only for India-China ties but also for the broader South Asian region, including Bangladesh and Pakistan.
During the visit, Beijing expressed its desire to see improved relations between India and Pakistan. Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning, addressing the media in Beijing on Tuesday, said that India and Pakistan are both “important neighbors” for China. She stressed that whatever issues exist between the two countries should be resolved through mutual dialogue and consultation.
China Signals Willingness to Mediate
Mao Ning further indicated that China is willing to play a positive role if both India and Pakistan agree. This statement is being seen as a signal that Beijing could act as a mediator if the two sides show readiness for dialogue.
China’s stance suggests that it wants to reduce tensions between New Delhi and Islamabad and promote regional peace.
Shift in Beijing’s Position
Traditionally, China has been seen as a close ally of Pakistan, especially after the Operation Sindoor conflict, where it was perceived to be standing by Islamabad. Pakistan is also a crucial partner for China under its ambitious Belt and Road Initiative (BRI).
However, this latest outreach indicates that Beijing is also keen on balancing its ties with India while encouraging India-Pakistan rapprochement. The move comes at a time when India has rejected U.S. mediation efforts, suggesting that China wants to position itself as a more acceptable facilitator.
Potential Impact of Improved Ties
If India’s relations with both China and Pakistan improve, it could have far-reaching benefits. For one, an end to Pakistan’s support for cross-border terrorism would pave the way for more stable relations.
Additionally, improved ties could open direct trade routes with Iran and Afghanistan through Pakistan, strengthening India’s connectivity and economic opportunities in the region.
