ON 31 March 2026, Pakistan and China came together to present a shared vision for peace in the Gulf and the wider Middle East.

Following a high-level meeting in Beijing between Pakistan’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar and China’s Foreign Minister Wang Yi, both sides announced a Five-Point Initiative focused on easing tensions and promoting regional stability. The announcement reflected a joint commitment to dialogue, cooperation and a more secure future for the region.

The plan urges an immediate ceasefire, swift peace talks respecting Iran’s and Gulf states’ sovereignty, protection of civilians and infrastructure, secure navigation in the Strait of Hormuz and adherence to the UN Charter. Such an initiative, while reflecting diplomatic ambition, also places Pakistan in a particularly delicate position. It must carefully balance its longstanding partnerships with countries like China and Iran, while at the same time maintaining a measured and constructive posture toward other key players.

The initiative emerged amid a raging war by US and Israeli strikes on Iran starting February 28, 2026, which killed key Iranian leaders and........

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