Beijing [China] – China has strongly condemned the deadly terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, voicing opposition to all forms of terrorism. The statement came from Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun during a press briefing on Wednesday.
“China firmly opposes all forms of terrorism. We mourn for the lives lost and express sincere sympathies to the bereaved families and the injured,” Guo said.
This comes as the international community continues to react to the April 22 terror attack, in which 26 people—including one Nepali citizen—were killed in Pahalgam, once a peaceful tourist haven in Anantnag district.
India’s Strong Diplomatic and Security Measures
In response, the Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) held a high-level emergency meeting chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The committee reviewed the nation’s overall security preparedness, with particular focus on Jammu and Kashmir, and issued sweeping retaliatory measures against Pakistan.
Key decisions from the CCS meeting include:
- Indus Waters Treaty (1960) to be held in abeyance.
- Immediate closure of the Integrated Check Post (ICP) at Attari.
- SAARC Visa Exemption Scheme (SVES) for Pakistani nationals suspended:
- All previously issued SVES visas cancelled.
- Pakistanis in India under SVES must exit within 48 hours.
- Pakistani defence attaches in New Delhi declared Persona Non Grata—to leave within a week.
- India to withdraw its own Defence, Naval, and Air Advisors from Islamabad.
- Diplomatic staff in both High Commissions to be reduced from 55 to 30 by May 1, 2025.
India Reaffirms Counter-Terror Stance
The CCS reiterated that terror perpetrators and their sponsors will be held accountable, citing the extradition of Tahawwur Rana as a sign of India’s global efforts to combat terrorism. The government vowed to continue its pursuit of justice and security for its citizens.
“The attack is a stark reminder of the continuing threat from cross-border terrorism. India will not tolerate such actions and will respond with resolve and strength,” said a senior government source.
Global Reactions and Tensions Rise
China’s condemnation adds to the chorus of international voices denouncing the Pahalgam attack. With India taking firm diplomatic steps and tightening its security apparatus, the situation in the region is rapidly evolving. The attack is being widely seen as one of the worst terror incidents since Pulwama (2019) and a major test of regional stability post-Article 370 abrogation.