Pakistan and China have committed to a coordinated diplomatic push to restore stability in the Middle East, with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif calling for “joint efforts” to end the escalating regional conflict. The commitment came during high-stakes delegation-level talks with Chinese Premier Li Qiang at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing on Monday.
During the meeting, Prime Minister Sharif emphasized that the world is navigating a “critical phase” due to the ongoing Middle East turmoil, which he noted has sent economic shockwaves across the globe, including Pakistan. He expressed Islamabad’s full support for a peace framework proposed by Chinese President Xi Jinping.
Backing Xi Jinping’s Four-Point Peace Agenda
Central to the discussions was President Xi’s four-point agenda for regional stability. “Pakistan fully supports President Xi’s four-point agenda aimed at promoting regional peace and stability,” PM Shehbaz stated. He further revealed that Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar and China’s foreign minister have jointly announced a five-point program designed to accelerate ceasefire initiatives in the war-torn region.
The diplomatic engagement underscores Pakistan’s role as a key facilitator in de-escalating tensions. PM Shehbaz highlighted Islamabad’s “sincere role” in enabling backchannel contacts between the United States and Iran, a process he described as showing “considerable progress.”
Military Diplomacy and Regional Stability
In a rare acknowledgment of military diplomacy, the prime minister confirmed that Chief of Army Staff and Chief of Defence Forces Field Marshal Asim Munir recently returned from Tehran, where he played a pivotal role in bridging communication between Iranian and American leadership.
“We pray that peace is restored permanently. Considerable progress has been made, and matters are moving in the right direction,” PM Shehbaz said, expressing optimism that Pakistan could soon host a new round of Iran-US talks.
Premier Li Qiang recognized Pakistan’s contributions, stating that Islamabad had maintained close coordination with China and played a “positive role in promoting regional peace.” He added that Beijing remains committed to strengthening its traditional friendship and expanding bilateral cooperation with Pakistan.
Strengthening a 75-Year Alliance
The leaders also celebrated 75 years of diplomatic relations between the two nations. PM Shehbaz reflected on the deep historical ties, noting that the foundations of the Pakistan-China relationship were laid by the founding leaders of both countries.
“Every visit to China reveals new development and progress,” the prime minister remarked, thanking the Chinese leadership for the invitation. The meeting was preceded by a formal welcoming ceremony featuring national anthems and a guard of honour. Premier Li stated that an upcoming meeting between President Xi and PM Shehbaz would provide “strategic guidance” for the future of bilateral relations.
The prime minister also took a moment to express condolences over the deadly coal mine explosion in China’s Shanxi province, stating that Pakistan stands in complete solidarity with the affected families.
