ISLAMABAD: Shehbaz Sharif has reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to advancing the next phase of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor, while China expressed strong support for Islamabad’s economic reforms and stability efforts.
Speaking during a meeting in Islamabad with Chinese Ambassador Jiang Zaidong, the prime minister highlighted Pakistan’s constructive role in promoting de-escalation amid ongoing tensions involving the United States, Israel, and Iran.
According to an official statement, Shehbaz Sharif underscored Islamabad’s efforts to support diplomatic initiatives aimed at ending the nearly month-long conflict, noting that Pakistan has been actively engaged in facilitating dialogue through back-channel contacts.
Recent reports suggest Pakistan is positioning itself as a potential mediator, with senior officials helping relay messages between Tehran and Washington. Over the past few days, Islamabad has also coordinated with Turkiye and Egypt to help reduce tensions and prevent further escalation.
The situation remains a concern for Pakistan, as prolonged instability in Iran could have spillover effects, including security and energy challenges. Officials note that disruptions linked to the conflict have already impacted fuel supplies.
Separately, Asim Munir is reported to have held a phone conversation with Donald Trump, with senior Pakistani figures also facilitating contacts with key US officials such as Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner.
There are also indications that Pakistan could host a high-level meeting between Washington and Tehran, potentially attended by US Vice President JD Vance, as diplomatic momentum gathers pace.
During the meeting, the prime minister congratulated Chinese leadership, including Xi Jinping, Li Qiang, and Wang Yi, on the successful conclusion of their recent political sessions and thanked them for extending Pakistan Day greetings.
Reaffirming Islamabad’s commitment to CPEC’s second phase, the premier emphasized cooperation in agriculture, industry, and infrastructure development. Ambassador Jiang, in turn, praised Pakistan’s economic resilience and reiterated Beijing’s continued support, particularly in trade and investment.
Both sides expressed satisfaction over ongoing cooperation and looked forward to future high-level engagements, including celebrations marking 75 years of diplomatic ties, while reaffirming the strength of the Pakistan-China All-Weather Strategic Cooperative Partnership.
