ISLAMABAD: Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar will depart for an official visit to China today (Tuesday), as tensions escalate in the Middle East.
The Foreign Office said Dar is visiting at the invitation of Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi.
Pakistan and China maintain an all-weather strategic partnership. Both sides hold regular consultations on regional and global issues.
Officials said the visit will focus on regional developments, bilateral ties, and key international issues.
Dar undertook the visit despite a recent minor shoulder fracture. Officials said this reflects Pakistan’s commitment to its ties with China.
Focus on Regional Diplomacy
The visit comes as the Middle East faces heightened tensions. Pakistan has positioned itself as a proponent of peace and active diplomacy in the crisis.
Islamabad recently hosted a high-level meeting with the foreign ministers of Saudi Arabia, Egypt, and Turkey. The talks focused on de-escalation and regional stability.
Participants discussed ceasefire proposals and explored options to resolve conflicts through dialogue. They agreed to continue negotiations and review progress in upcoming rounds.
China Urges De-escalation
China has called on all parties to halt military actions. Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian warned that further escalation could destabilize the entire region.
“Use of force will only deepen the crisis,” he said. “The conflict should not have started.”
Lin urged all sides to resume political dialogue and ensure stability. He also stressed the need to safeguard key global shipping routes, including the Strait of Hormuz.
Pakistan Steps Up Diplomacy
Pakistan maintains ties with a wide range of countries, including the United States, Iran, Saudi Arabia, and China. Officials said Islamabad’s diplomatic efforts for peace have gained international attention.
Analysts said Dar’s visit to Beijing is critical given the current regional situation.
Earlier, Dar briefed a high-level meeting chaired by President Asif Ali Zardari on Pakistan’s diplomatic outreach. He outlined recent contacts with regional leaders and shared details of his upcoming visit to Beijing.
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Officials said Pakistan will continue to engage with all stakeholders to promote dialogue and reduce tensions in the region.
