'Pakistan Used Missiles Shown At Defence Exhibition Against India': China Deflects Question On Recovery Of PL-15E Missile

China's defence Ministry spokesperson, Zhang Xiaogang, remained tight-lipped over the effectiveness of Pakistan’s weapons during the recent military tensions with India. Instead of direct answers he urged both sides to remain calm, Global Times reported.

Responding on a question over the performance of Chinese equipment in the recent India-Pakistan conflict, and on the remarks by Indian military officials that “Pakistan received support from China’s air defense and satellite systems, but the performance of these systems was below average,” Zhang said, “We would like to stress that India and Pakistan are neighbors that cannot be moved. We hope both sides will remain calm and restrained to avoid further complicating the situation.” He said that China is willing to continue playing a constructive role in maintaining regional peace and stability. Zhang Xiaogang was speaking at a regular press briefing.

Xiaogang declined to comment on India's recovery of a PL-15E missile. He said, “The missile you mentioned is an export equipment and has been shown at defence exhibitions at home and abroad many times,” Zhang said, referring to the unexploded PL-15E reportedly found by Indian armed forces.

Earlier in the month, a fully intact China-made PL-15 long-range air-to-air missile was recovered from Punjab's Hoshiarpur. Police officials reached the spot after receiving the information.