NEW DELHI: China is willing to maintain communication with both India and Pakistan and play a constructive role in achieving a full and lasting ceasefire, as well as in maintaining regional peace and stability, the Chinese foreign ministry said on Monday.
Spokesperson Mao Ning's remarks came in response to queries about the Beijing visit of Pakistan foreign minister Ishaq Dar - the first high-level Pakistani official to be in China after the Islamabad's military tensions with New Delhi - and China's position on the conflict.
Asked about reports that China may have provided satellite and air defence support to Pakistan during the conflict, the official said that since tensions started to increase between India and Pakistan, China followed an "objective and just position, urged the two countries to exercise calm and restraint, and avoid escalation".
"Both India and Pakistan are China's important neighbours. China attaches high importance to its ties with both, and is committed to fostering an amicable, secure and prosperous neighborhood, the principle of amity, sincerity, mutual benefit and inclusiveness and the vision of a shared future..." Mao said.
Dar, who arrived in Beijing on Monday, is also expected to brief China about Pakistan's position on India's decision to put the Indus Waters Treaty in abeyance.
On a question about China's military aid to Pakistan during the conflict, the official said that the query should be directed to competent authorities in the country. Mao gave a similar answer when asked if replenishment of the Chinese weapons system would be discussed during Dar's visit. The Chinese air force has denied reports that it is sending weapon supplies to Pakistan in a cargo plane.