China quietly sides with Pakistan after Kashmir attack

Following the deadly assault on civilians in Pahalgam on April 22, 2025, China officially condemned terrorism but subtly avoided calling it a terror act. Instead, Chinese state-controlled platforms like Xinhua and CCTV described the assailants as unidentified local shooters, echoing Pakistan’s narrative while softening the terminology. They referred to the area as “India-administered Kashmir,” steering clear of Pakistan’s harsher term “illegally-occupied.”

Meanwhile, China’s media and officials emphasized “restraint” and urged India not to jump to hasty conclusions. Outlets such as Global Times amplified TRF’s claim of cyber-hacking behind their initial admission of guilt, thereby undermining Indian suspicions of cross-border involvement.

Beijing also reiterated its long-standing call for New Delhi and Islamabad to settle their disputes via dialogue. Foreign Minister Wang Yi’s communication with his Pakistani counterpart emphasized this message, hinting that mediation could be China’s role in easing tensions. Yet, such proposals appear to prioritize regional stability over India’s security concerns.

Commentators in Chinese media have even questioned India’s military preparedness, suggesting that an armed confrontation would derail its progress. Some framed Pakistan’s responses—including airspace closure and halting trade—as bold retaliations against India’s “aggression.”

Strategic voices also raised worries about the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) being jeopardized by Indo-Pak escalations, with Chinese experts alleging Indian support to separatist elements in the region.

Although China avoids overt alignment, its layered messaging and media tone consistently bolster Pakistan’s stance, complicating India’s global diplomatic outreach.

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