By The South Asia Times 

Beijing — Pakistan’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar arrived in Beijing with a shoulder fracture but pressed ahead with high-level diplomacy, joining China in launching a coordinated initiative to ease rising tensions across the Gulf and Middle East.

Dar met Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi as both sides reviewed the rapidly evolving security situation and expressed concern over the risk of a wider regional conflict, particularly involving Iran.

Following their talks, the two countries announced a five-point proposal centered on an immediate ceasefire, the launch of peace negotiations, and strict adherence to international humanitarian law, including the protection of civilians and critical infrastructure.

A significant focus of the initiative was the security of global energy routes, especially the Strait of Hormuz, through which a large share of the world’s oil supplies passes. Both sides called for ensuring the safety of commercial shipping and the swift restoration of normal maritime traffic.

China and Pakistan also underscored the importance of diplomacy over confrontation, urging all parties to respect sovereignty and territorial integrity while refraining from the use or threat of force.

The proposal further reaffirmed the central role of the United Nations, calling for renewed multilateral efforts to establish a comprehensive peace framework based on international law.

Dar’s decision to travel despite his injury highlighted Islamabad’s intent to remain actively engaged in diplomatic efforts alongside Beijing, as concerns grow over instability in one of the world’s most strategically significant regions.

Meanwhile, Pakistan’s Foreign Ministry spokesperson Tahir Andrabi said the five-point initiative reflects a “shared commitment by Islamabad and Beijing to de-escalation and stability” at a time of heightened regional tensions.

He emphasized that both countries view diplomacy as the only sustainable path forward, warning that any further escalation could have “serious consequences for regional and global peace.”

Andrabi noted that the proposal prioritizes not only an immediate ceasefire and dialogue, but also the protection of civilians, critical infrastructure, and vital maritime routes such as the Strait of Hormuz.

“The initiative underscores the importance of collective international responsibility under the United Nations framework to achieve a lasting and comprehensive peace,” he added.

🇵🇰🤝🇨🇳 Together for peace, he concluded.