China hopes for and supports an early ceasefire between Pakistan and India, and is willing to continue playing a constructive role in this regard, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi says, according to APP.

Wang, also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, made the remarks during a phone call with Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar, also the foreign minister.

As a neighbour of both Pakistan and India, China is concerned about the escalation of their conflict, Wang said, expressing sympathies over the civilian casualties in Pakistan.

Noting that China supports Pakistan in safeguarding its national sovereignty and dignity, Wang emphasised that once a ceasefire is reached, it must be jointly upheld to prevent the recurrence of conflicts.

He added that a lasting ceasefire serves the interests of both sides, contributes to regional peace and stability, and meets the common expectations of the international community.