China and Pakistan on Tuesday urged an immediate ceasefire in the Gulf and the wider Middle East, calling for peace talks to begin without delay and the restoration of normal navigation in the Strait of Hormuz. Their foreign ministers met in Beijing to address the escalating tensions following the US-Israeli war on Iran, which entered its fifth week.
Five-Point Peace Plan Unveiled
Islamabad has repeatedly stated its readiness to facilitate negotiations between Washington and Tehran. Meanwhile, Pakistan’s strategic position, sharing a 900-kilometer border with Iran, has positioned it as a key mediator. Furthermore, its recent diplomatic engagement with US President Donald Trump and its long-standing ties with Iran have bolstered its credibility as a neutral player.
“Dialogue and diplomacy are the only feasible ways to resolve conflicts,” China and Pakistan emphasized in a five-point initiative. “China and Pakistan support the parties concerned in initiating negotiations, and all sides should commit to resolving disputes through peaceful means.”
Regional Stability at Stake
The initiative underscored the need to safeguard Iran and Gulf countries’ sovereignty, territorial integrity, and security. Additionally, it called for the protection of civilians, civilian infrastructure, and peaceful nuclear facilities. Wang Yi and Mohammad Ishaq Dar warned that the safety of waterways must be ensured, particularly for ships and crews stranded in and around the Strait of Hormuz.
Consequently, China and Pakistan urged all parties to ensure the safe passage of civil and commercial vessels. They demanded the restoration of normal navigation in the Strait of Hormuz at the earliest. The strategic chokepoint remains a critical concern for global energy and shipping stability.
