China lauds Pakistan's peace role as Dar leads diplomatic push on Middle East crisis

ISLAMABAD: Chinese Ambassador Jiang Zaidong on Wednesday commended Pakistan’s “constructive role” in promoting peace and security in the Middle East and Gulf region during a meeting with Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar.

According to a statement issued by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the envoy conveyed Beijing’s deep appreciation for Islamabad’s diplomatic efforts aimed at de-escalation and stability in a region facing heightened tensions. The acknowledgment comes amid Pakistan’s increasing engagement in facilitating dialogue between key global and regional stakeholders.

During the meeting, Dar reaffirmed Pakistan’s consistent position that dialogue and diplomacy remain the only viable path to achieving lasting peace in the Middle East and West Asia. Both sides expressed optimism that ongoing diplomatic initiatives would lead to durable peace and security, benefiting all countries in the region.

The diplomatic engagement with China comes as Pakistan intensifies its outreach to global and regional partners. Earlier, Dar held a series of high-level telephonic conversations to discuss the evolving situation, including with European Union foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas.

In his conversation with Kallas, Dar highlighted Pakistan’s efforts to promote dialogue and facilitate peace, including its role in creating space for diplomacy that contributed to the initial US-Iran ceasefire. The EU official, in turn, commended Islamabad’s efforts and expressed full support for Pakistan’s ongoing peace initiatives.

As part of this diplomatic push, Dar also spoke with Qatar’s Minister of State Mohammed bin Abdulaziz Al-Khulaifi, who appreciated Pakistan’s constructive role in advancing regional stability. The talks underscored Islamabad’s continued engagement with Gulf nations amid rapidly shifting geopolitical dynamics.

In a separate call with Türkiye’s Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan, both sides reviewed the latest developments and reaffirmed their commitment to diplomatic engagement as a means to ensure peace and stability.

Dar also reached out to Egypt’s Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty, exchanging views on the evolving regional situation and reiterating Pakistan’s commitment to fostering dialogue.

Similarly, in a conversation with Saudi Arabia’s Foreign Minister Faisal bin Farhan, the two leaders discussed ongoing developments in the Middle East and broader region. Dar briefed him on Pakistan’s efforts to encourage diplomatic engagement and maintain regional stability.

The flurry of diplomatic contacts highlights Pakistan’s proactive approach in positioning itself as a key player in peacebuilding efforts, with growing international recognition from partners including China, the European Union, and major Middle Eastern countries.