China on Thursday extended an offer to mediate between Pakistan and Iran in the aftermath of a gunfight targeting suspected militants along the Pakistan-Iran border. The clash, which included an attack resulting in the reported death of at least nine civilians, prompted China’s Foreign Ministry spokesperson, Mao Ning, to address the situation during a regular press conference.
Mao Ning stated, “The Chinese side sincerely hopes that the two sides can exercise calm and restraint to avoid an escalation of tension. We are also willing to play a constructive role in de-escalating the situation if both sides so wish.”
Both Pakistan and Iran, grappling with insurgencies in their sparsely populated border region, had announced actions against militant targets on Thursday. Pakistan’s announcement of attacks inside Iran led to the summoning of Pakistan’s chargé d’affaires by the Iranian government.
As close partners of Beijing and members of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization, Mao emphasized that Iran and Pakistan are considered “China’s friends and countries with great influence.” The offer of mediation by China underscores its commitment to promoting calm and resolving tensions between its key regional allies.
