China calls on Pakistan, Afghanistan to end conflict

China on Monday urged Pakistan and Afghanistan to exercise restraint and resolve their mutual concerns through dialogue and consultations, after dozens of soldiers from both sides were killed in intense clashes along the border between the two neighbours.

"Recently, conflicts have occurred between Pakistan and Afghanistan, leading to tense relations, which we are deeply concerned about,” Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Lin Jian said. “China sincerely hopes that both sides will focus on the broader picture, remain calm and restrained, adhere to resolving mutual concerns through dialogue and consultation, avoid escalating conflicts, and jointly maintain peace and stability in both countries and the region,” he said.

The Pakistan army on Sunday said 23 of its soldiers and over 200 Taliban and affiliated terrorists were killed in intense overnight clashes.