Victor Gao, Vice President of the Centre for China and Globalisation and a prominent foreign policy voice in Beijing, made the remarks during an interview with Chinese state broadcaster CGTN.
“China and Pakistan have ironclad relations — we truly stand by each other,” Victor Gao said, describing the bilateral partnership as one of deep strategic trust.
In a clear signal of China’s position, Victor Gao stated: “If escalation threatens Pakistan’s legitimate interests, sovereignty, or territorial integrity, that is a serious matter.”
He added “I do not believe any country should doubt China’s commitment to protecting Pakistan’s legitimate interests.”
The remarks come as tensions rise sharply between Pakistan and India, following missile exchanges and military operations along the border.
Pakistan initiated retaliatory action in response to the ongoing Indian aggression in the wee hours of Saturday.
The operation has been officially named Operation Bunyan-un-Marsoos.
As part of the operation, all bases identified as launch points for attacks on Pakistani civilians and mosques are being specifically targeted.
Multiple strategic targets are being engaged simultaneously as the operation progresses, security sources confirmed.
They stated that Pakistan launched its Al-Fatah missile as part of the ongoing retaliatory operation, naming it in honour of the Pakistani children who lost their lives in recent Indian aggression.
They added that Pakistan has neither forgotten nor will ever forget the sacrifice of these innocent children, who were martyred during cross-border attacks by Indian forces earlier this week.