China and Pakistan have jointly unveiled a five-point initiative aimed at de-escalating tensions and restoring stability in the Gulf and the wider Middle East.
The proposal emerged after a high-level meeting in Beijing between Wang Yi, a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, and Mohammad Ishaq Dar.
Both officials reviewed the worsening security situation in the region and underscored the urgent need for coordinated international action to prevent further escalation.
At the core of the initiative is an immediate cessation of hostilities, with both countries urging all parties involved in ongoing conflicts to halt violence and allow unhindered humanitarian access to affected populations.
The proposal also calls for the swift commencement of peace negotiations, stressing that dialogue and diplomacy remain the only viable pathways to resolution. It emphasises respect for the sovereignty and territorial integrity of regional states, including Iran, while urging restraint from the use or threat of force during negotiations.
In addition, the initiative highlights the need to protect civilians and non-military targets, calling for strict adherence to international humanitarian law and an immediate end to attacks on civilian populations and critical infrastructure, including energy facilities and nuclear installations.
China and Pakistan further stressed the importance of safeguarding vital maritime routes, particularly the Strait of Hormuz, urging all parties to ensure the safety of vessels and crews and to restore normal shipping operations without delay.
Finally, the two countries reaffirmed the central role of the United Nations Charter, advocating strengthened multilateral cooperation and support for a comprehensive peace framework grounded in international law.
The joint initiative signals a renewed diplomatic effort by Beijing and Islamabad to play a more active role in stabilising one of the world’s most volatile regions amid rising geopolitical tensions.
