China calls for Afghanistan-Pakistan truce

China is deeply concerned about the escalation of the conflict between Pakistan and Afghanistan, and urges both sides to achieve a ceasefire as soon as possible, Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Mao Ning said on Friday. She made the remarks at a regular news briefing after clashes broke out along the Afghan-Pakistani border on Thursday. "China is closely watching the developments of the situation. Pakistan and Afghanistan are inseparable neighbours to each other, and both are also China's neighbouring countries," Mao said. Expressing great sorrow over the casualties caused by the conflict, Mao said this round of fighting was more intense than before, and that any prolongation or escalation would inflict even more harm and losses on both sides. Noting that China supports the fight against terrorism in all its forms, she called on both sides to remain calm, exercise restraint and properly resolve their differences through dialogue and negotiation. (Xinhua) Edited by Edmond Fong