Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Thursday underscored Pakistan’s constructive efforts to promote de-escalation and regional stability amid ongoing tensions in the Middle East. His remarks came during a meeting with Chinese Ambassador Jiang Zaidong and his delegation at the Prime Minister’s House in Islamabad.
In a significant development, Pakistan is increasingly seen as a key mediator in back-channel diplomacy aimed at ending the nearly month-long conflict involving the US, Israel, and Iran. The war, which began on February 28, has raised concerns in Islamabad about potential spillover effects into Pakistan, one of its greatest security fears.
Pakistan’s involvement is particularly critical given its ongoing conflict with the Afghan Taliban and the economic disruptions it has faced, including fuel shortages linked to the Iran war. Notably, Chief of Army Staff and Chief of Defence Forces Field Marshal Asim Munir recently held a telephonic conversation with US President Donald Trump, a contact confirmed by the White House.
Senior Pakistani officials have been facilitating communication between Tehran and influential US figures such as Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner. Over the past three days, Pakistan, in coordination with Turkiye and Egypt, has played a central role in relaying messages between Washington and Tehran to prevent further escalation.
Reports indicate Pakistan may host a high-level meeting between the US and Iran later this week, with US Vice President JD Vance expected to attend if the plan proceeds. PM Shehbaz has publicly expressed Pakistan’s readiness to host talks to resolve the conflict, reflecting growing diplomatic momentum as Washington shifts its stance amid Gulf allies’ concerns over escalation.
During the meeting, PM Shehbaz congratulated the Chinese leadership on the successful conclusion of the “Two Sessions” and expressed gratitude to President Xi Jinping, Premier Li Qiang, and Foreign Minister Wang Yi for their warm Pakistan Day greetings. He also praised China’s ongoing economic support and reaffirmed Pakistan’s dedication to advancing the second phase of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC 2.0), emphasizing agriculture, industrial cooperation, and priority infrastructure projects.
Ambassador Jiang commended Pakistan’s economic resilience and reform initiatives, reiterating Beijing’s continued backing, especially in trade and investment. Both sides expressed satisfaction with current engagements and anticipated high-level exchanges to celebrate the 75th anniversary of diplomatic ties between the two nations.
PM Shehbaz further highlighted the importance of close coordination on mutual interests, reaffirming the enduring Pakistan-China All-Weather Strategic Cooperative Partnership.
