China, Pakistan call for urgent ceasefire, peace talks in Middle East

BEIJING/ISLAMABAD: China and Pakistan on Tuesday called for an immediate ceasefire and the start of peace talks “as soon as possible” to end escalating conflict in the Gulf and wider Middle East, according to official statements from both countries.

The appeal came during a conversation between Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi and Pakistan’s Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, state media reported, as tensions in the region continue to rise following military exchanges involving Iran and the United States.

In a coordinated diplomatic push, the two sides released a five-point initiative aimed at restoring peace and stability. The proposal urged all parties to immediately cease hostilities, avoid further escalation and prioritise dialogue to resolve disputes.

Both ministers stressed the urgency of launching peace negotiations without delay, warning that continued fighting could destabilise the broader region and threaten global economic interests.

They also highlighted the need to ensure the safety of key maritime routes, particularly the Strait of Hormuz, a vital artery for global oil shipments. The two sides called for measures to protect vessels, crews and commercial shipping currently operating in or stranded within the strategic waterway.

The initiative further emphasised the importance of safeguarding civilian lives and critical infrastructure, while urging the international community to support de-escalation efforts through diplomatic channels.

Pakistan’s foreign ministry said both countries agreed that dialogue and political solutions remain the only viable path forward, reiterating their opposition to the use of force.

The joint call reflects growing concern among regional and global powers over the risk of a wider conflict, as military activity intensifies and threatens to disrupt energy supplies and trade routes across the Middle East.