ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif said on Monday that Pakistan had played a sincere and constructive role in easing tensions between the United States and Iran, while appreciating China’s efforts in helping promote regional peace and support for the US-Iran ceasefire.
During his meeting with Chinese Premier Li Qiang at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, Shehbaz Sharif said the situation in the region was gradually improving and expressed hope that peace would soon be fully restored.
“A lot of progress has already been made, and developments are moving in a positive direction,” the prime minister remarked during the talks held as part of his four-day official visit to China.
He thanked Chinese President Xi Jinping and the Chinese leadership for their continued support in promoting dialogue and stability in the region. The prime minister also endorsed President Xi’s proposed four-point peace initiative and referred to the five-point ceasefire support plan announced after Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar met Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi.
Shehbaz Sharif noted that the Gulf crisis had created serious economic challenges not only for countries in the region but also for the wider global economy, especially for oil-importing nations like Pakistan.
He highlighted the diplomatic efforts of Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, saying he had remained actively engaged with Iranian, American, and Gulf leaders to support de-escalation efforts alongside Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar.
The prime minister also conveyed condolences over the recent coal mine gas explosion in Shanxi, China, expressing solidarity with the victims and their families.
Speaking on bilateral ties, Shehbaz Sharif said Pakistan and China were celebrating 75 years of diplomatic relations and longstanding friendship established by the founding leaders of both countries. He added that both nations remained committed to strengthening cooperation and carrying forward that legacy.
In his remarks, Premier Li Qiang praised Pakistan for maintaining close coordination and constructive engagement during the regional crisis, saying such efforts had contributed positively to peace and stability.
He added that China was prepared to deepen cooperation with Pakistan, strengthen traditional friendship, and expand practical collaboration to build a stronger shared future for both countries.
