China advised Pakistan and India to improve relations, Wang says

China advised Pakistan and India to quickly turn the page and seek fundamental and long-term improvement in their relations, State Councilor and Foreign Minister Wang Yi said at a news conference on the sidelines of the second session of the 13th National People's Congress.

China has stressed from the beginning the need to exercise calm and restraint, prevent escalation, find out what has happened and resolve the matter through dialogue, Wang said.

In the meantime, sovereignty and territorial integrity should be fully respected, he said.

Wang said that China has followed the principles in its mediation efforts and played a constructive role in defusing the tensions.

He also said that China welcomed both sides have indicated desire to deescalate the situation and start talks in the last couple of days.

Pakistan and India face important opportunities to realize stability, development and prosperity, he said.