Pakistan’s Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar will begin a three-day official visit to China on Monday. His office confirmed the trip Sunday, days after Pakistan and India agreed to a rare ceasefire following clashes in Kashmir. Dar, who also serves as deputy prime minister, will meet Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi to discuss regional stability and bilateral cooperation.
Ceasefire Follows Deadly Kashmir Conflict
The visit follows weeks of turmoil sparked by a militant attack in Indian-administered Kashmir on April 26, which killed 26 civilians. India accused Pakistan of supporting the attackers, allegations Islamabad denies. Both nations claim Kashmir in full, a dispute fueling three wars since 1947.
China remains Pakistan’s steadfast ally, offering financial aid and diplomatic support. On May 7, Dar revealed Pakistan deployed Chinese-made jets during skirmishes with India. He later briefed China’s ambassador, who endorsed Islamabad’s actions. Analysts note Beijing’s strategic alignment with Pakistan despite calls for neutrality.
Global Calls for Restraint
International leaders, including China, urged de-escalation as cross-border strikes killed over 70 people in early May. U.S. President Donald Trump brokered a May 10 truce, still holding as of Sunday. While Pakistan initially set a ceasefire deadline, India insists the agreement remains open-ended.
Dar and Wang will review Pakistan-China ties and address shared concerns over South Asia’s shifting geopolitics. Their talks may shape responses to future conflicts, balancing alliances with global peace efforts. Beijing’s role as mediator—or partisan—could redefine regional power dynamics.
The Kashmir conflict underscores enduring India-Pakistan hostilities, testing diplomatic alliances. China’s growing influence highlights its stakes in South Asian stability, positioning itself as both partner and power broker.
