In a development that has stirred the diplomatic circuit, China has asserted that it played a mediating role in de-escalating tensions between India and Pakistan earlier this year. This claim, made by Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi, mirrors similar statements previously made by former US President Donald Trump, which India has consistently and firmly rejected.
The Chinese Assertion and Its Context
Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi, while addressing the Symposium on the International Situation and China's Foreign Relations in Beijing on 30 December 2025, stated that the Xi Jinping-led government had mediated in several global conflicts. The Chinese Foreign Ministry later shared his statement on social media platform X.
The post listed several "hotspot issues" where China claimed to have played a role, including "the tensions between Pakistan and India." Wang Yi emphasized a "Chinese approach" focused on "addressing both symptoms and root causes" to build lasting peace.
This remark follows repeated claims by former US President Donald Trump that the US intervened to prevent a potential war between the two nuclear-armed neighbours. The standoff in question was triggered by the devastating Pahalgam terror attack on 22 April, which primarily targeted tourists and resulted in the loss of 26 lives in Jammu and Kashmir.
India's Stance and the Timeline of Events
India has maintained a clear and unambiguous position on the matter. Officials insist that the military confrontation was resolved through direct bilateral communication between the two nations, without any third-party involvement.
In response to the Pahalgam attack, India launched Operation Sindoor, a precision military action targeting terror infrastructure inside Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. According to India's account, the strikes successfully hit nine terrorist bases.
The confrontation de-escalated after Pakistan's Director General of Military Operations (DGMO) contacted his Indian counterpart. Following this direct military-to-military communication, both sides agreed to cease all firing and military actions on land, in the air, and at sea, effective 10 May.
Strategic Implications and Regional Dynamics
China's recent claim has drawn significant scrutiny, particularly given its role as Pakistan's largest arms supplier and its close defence partnership with Islamabad. Analysts suggest the assertion is part of a broader narrative to position China as a global peacemaker.
The claim has also renewed focus on Beijing's actions during the standoff. On 7 May, the first day of Operation Sindoor, China's Foreign Ministry had termed India's military action "regrettable" and called for restraint. Furthermore, a November 2025 report by the US-China Economic and Security Review Commission accused China of orchestrating a disinformation campaign following India's operation.
India's firm rejection of any external mediation underscores its long-standing policy of handling bilateral issues with Pakistan directly, while also highlighting the complex geopolitical undercurrents involving major powers like the US and China in South Asian affairs.
