China on Saturday strongly urged both India and Pakistan to exercise calm and restraint, and avoid actions that could further escalate tensions, after Pakistan retaliated against Indian attacks on its territory.

"China is closely following the ongoing situation between India and Pakistan and is deeply concerned about the escalation," a Foreign Ministry spokesperson said in a statement, as Pakistan launched "Operation Bunyan-ul-Marsoos" after India targeted locations, including the Nur Khan air base, on the morning of May 10.

The spokesperson called on both sides to act in the larger interest of peace and stability, seeking a political settlement through peaceful means and avoiding actions that could worsen the situation.

"This will be important for the fundamental interest of both India and Pakistan, and for a stable and peaceful region," the statement said.

"This is also what the international community hopes to see,"the spokesperson said, adding that China is willing to continue playing a constructive role in de-escalating tensions.