China called on Pakistan and Afghanistan to continue addressing differences through dialogue and consultation, work to de-escalate the situation, and jointly safeguard regional peace and stability, Foreign Ministry spokesman Guo Jiakun said.

His remarks followed renewed clashes between Pakistan and Afghanistan on the night of Dec 5 — the first major confrontation since the two sides agreed to a cease-fire in mid-October. Multiple civilian casualties have been reported.

Speaking at a daily news briefing on Tuesday, Guo said Pakistan and Afghanistan are traditionally both China's friendly neighbors, and that the two countries are neighbors that cannot be moved.

China stands ready to work with the international community to continue playing a constructive role in improving and developing Pakistan-Afghanistan relations, he added.