Pakistan, China push for peace in Middle East amid rising regional tensions: FO

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan has intensified its diplomatic efforts to promote stability in the Middle East and Gulf region, holding a series of high-level meetings with foreign ministers from key partner countries, the Foreign Office said in a briefing.

The second in a series of ministerial meetings in Islamabad saw all participating foreign ministers meet Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, with discussions extending 15 minutes beyond the scheduled time. Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar briefed attendees on the positions of the United States and Iran, while all four ministers agreed to strengthen coordination and bilateral ties to de-escalate tensions.

Dar also conducted a one-day visit to China, meeting his Chinese counterpart to discuss the regional situation and Afghanistan. Pakistan and China jointly unveiled a five-point initiative aimed at restoring peace and stability in the Middle East, which has received international recognition and support. Both countries called for an immediate ceasefire, protection of the sovereignty of Iran and Gulf nations, and safe navigation of key maritime routes such as the Strait of Hormuz.

In parallel, Prime Minister Sharif held telephone talks with the Crown Prince of Kuwait, the Iranian president, and the European Council president, condemning recent attacks and emphasising Pakistan’s commitment to mediation and diplomacy. Eight Islamic nations also denounced restrictions on worship at Al-Aqsa Mosque and Christian churches in Jerusalem.

The Foreign Office stressed that ongoing tensions in the Middle East serve no country’s interests and highlighted Pakistan’s consistent engagement with regional and international partners, including Saudi Arabia, Turkey, Egypt, and Afghanistan, to prevent escalation and promote dialogue as the only viable path toward lasting peace.