Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif Thanks China for Unwavering Support in South Asia Crisis

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif met with Chinese Ambassador Jiang Zaidong at the Prime Minister’s Office, expressing gratitude for China’s firm backing of Pakistan amid rising regional tensions.

During the meeting, the Prime Minister conveyed warm wishes to Chinese President Xi Jinping and Premier Li Qiang. He thanked the Chinese leadership for its continued and consistent support of Pakistan, particularly in light of recent developments in South Asia.

Highlighting a recent phone conversation between Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi and Pakistan’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Senator Ishaq Dar, Shehbaz Sharif appreciated China’s understanding of Pakistan’s principled stance regarding India’s recent actions since April 22.

Acknowledgement of Support for Counterterrorism Efforts

Prime Minister Shehbaz reaffirmed Pakistan’s offer to support a transparent and impartial international investigation into the incident.

He noted that Pakistan, as a frontline state against terrorism, has sacrificed over 90,000 lives and suffered economic losses exceeding $152 billion. He warned that India’s aggressive posture could divert Pakistan’s focus from ongoing counterterrorism operations against groups like ISKP, TTP, and BLA—terrorist outfits operating from Afghan soil.

India’s Water Politics and Treaty Violations

The Prime Minister expressed deep concern over India’s alleged use of water as a political weapon. He stated that unilateral withdrawal from the Indus Waters Treaty by any party is unacceptable and violates international agreements.

Reaffirmation on Jammu and Kashmir

Shehbaz Sharif reiterated that a peaceful resolution to the Jammu and Kashmir dispute is essential for lasting peace in South Asia. He stressed that dialogue and diplomacy remain the only viable path to regional stability.

China Reaffirms Strong Partnership

Ambassador Jiang Zaidong thanked the Prime Minister for clearly outlining Pakistan’s position and reaffirmed China’s commitment to working closely with Pakistan for peace and stability in the region.