ISLAMABAD – Pakistan and China yesterday jointly proposed a comprehensive five-point initiative aimed at restoring peace and stability in the Gulf and wider Middle East region, calling for an immediate cessation of hostilities, renewed diplomacy, protection of civilians and critical infrastructure, and strengthened multilateral engagement under the United Nations framework.
The initiative was announced following a high-level meeting in Beijing between Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi, Member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, and Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, who reviewed the rapidly evolving regional security situation amid escalating tensions across the Gulf and Middle East.
In a joint statement issued after the talks, the two friendly countries urged an immediate cessation of hostilities, stressing that urgent steps were required to prevent further escalation and spillover of conflict across the region.
They emphasised that humanitarian assistance must be allowed uninterrupted access to all war-affected populations.
The proposal reflected growing international concern over rising instability in the Gulf, where recent military confrontations and heightened geopolitical rivalries have threatened regional security, energy markets and global trade routes.
Pakistan and China underscored that dialogue and diplomacy remain the only sustainable means of resolving disputes, calling for the swift launch of peace negotiations among relevant parties. The initiative emphasised respect for sovereignty, territorial integrity, national independence and security of Iran and Gulf states, urging all sides to commit to peaceful dispute resolution and refrain from the threat or use of force during negotiations.
Both countries pledged support for diplomatic efforts facilitating inclusive dialogue, aligning with broader international calls for de-escalation following weeks of heightened tensions and diplomatic activity involving regional and global stakeholders.
A key component of the proposal focuses on safeguarding civilians and non-military targets. China and Pakistan called on all parties to strictly adhere to International Humanitarian Law and immediately halt attacks on civilian populations and essential infrastructure.
The statement specifically highlighted the need to protect energy installations, desalination facilities, power infrastructure and peaceful nuclear facilities, warning that attacks on such sites could trigger severe humanitarian and environmental consequences across the region.
Recognising the strategic importance of maritime trade, the two countries stressed the urgency of ensuring security in the Strait of Hormuz and adjacent waters, one of the world’s most vital energy corridors.
They urged all parties to guarantee the safety of vessels and crews, facilitate the early and secure passage of civilian and commercial ships, and restore normal navigation as soon as possible to stabilise global energy supplies and international commerce.
Recent disruptions and security concerns in the waterway have heightened fears of supply shocks and rising energy prices, drawing international attention to maritime security in the Gulf.’
The fifth pillar of the initiative called for reaffirming the primacy of the United Nations Charter and strengthening multilateral cooperation.
Pakistan and China advocated “true multilateralism,” urging collective efforts to establish a comprehensive peace framework grounded in international law and UN principles.
The initiative aligned with both countries’ consistent diplomatic emphasis on negotiated settlements and UN-led conflict resolution mechanisms.
The Beijing meeting came amid intensified diplomatic engagement by Pakistan and China on regional crises. Islamabad recently hosted consultations with key regional partners to assess developments in the Middle East, while Beijing has stepped up mediation efforts consistent with its expanding diplomatic role in conflict management across West Asia.
Pakistan has increasingly positioned itself as a bridge-builder between regional powers, leveraging longstanding ties with Gulf states, Iran and China, while Beijing continues to advocate political dialogue and economic stability as pillars of regional security.
The joint initiative is seen as part of broader Pakistan-China coordination under their strategic partnership, signalling a shared effort to promote de-escalation, safeguard global trade routes and prevent wider regional instability with global economic repercussions.
The five-point proposal is expected to be presented in upcoming multilateral diplomatic engagements as both countries seek international backing for a negotiated pathway toward lasting peace in the Gulf and Middle East.
