ISLAMABAD: China urged countries to join a joint peace initiative with Pakistan to ease tensions in the Middle East. It warned that the ongoing war in Iran is disrupting global energy supplies and trade and threatening the world economy.
The call followed a five-point proposal announced earlier this week by Beijing and Islamabad. Pakistan’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar discussed the plan with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi during talks in Beijing.
The initiative calls for an immediate ceasefire, the launch of peace talks, and protection of civilian and commercial infrastructure, including shipping lanes. It also stresses adherence to the United Nations Charter.
The conflict began on Feb. 28 with U.S.-Israeli strikes on Iran and Tehran’s retaliation. The situation has shaken global energy markets, especially after Iran moved to shut the Strait of Hormuz.
“China and Pakistan, as important countries of the Global South, have taken a rational and just position,” Chinese Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Mao Ning said at a regular briefing.
She said the initiative aims to build international consensus and mobilize stronger efforts to ease tensions.
“The initiative is open, and we welcome participation from all countries and international organizations,” she added.
Mao said China will maintain close coordination with Pakistan and other stakeholders to promote a ceasefire and end hostilities.
She warned that the conflict’s spillover effects are increasingly damaging regional and global stability.
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China and Pakistan have called for urgent peace talks. They stressed the need to respect the sovereignty, territorial integrity, and security of Iran and Gulf states.
