ISLAMABAD: Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar departed for Beijing on Tuesday for a one-day official visit at the invitation of Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi, as Pakistan intensifies diplomatic efforts to ease tensions in the Middle East.
According to the Foreign Office, the visit—Dar’s second to China this year—will focus on reviewing bilateral relations and holding in-depth discussions on regional and global developments of mutual interest.
The trip comes amid heightened diplomatic activity by Islamabad following the ongoing conflict involving Iran, the United States, and Israel. Pakistan has recently hosted key regional players, including Saudi Arabia, Türkiye, and Egypt, in a quadrilateral meeting aimed at calling for an immediate and lasting ceasefire.
Officials say Pakistan has also played a behind-the-scenes role in relaying messages between Washington and Tehran, positioning itself as a key diplomatic intermediary during the crisis.
Analysts suggest Beijing could emerge as a potential guarantor in any future agreement between Iran and the United States. Experts, including Vali Nasr, have indicated that Tehran is seeking strong assurances in any prospective deal—something China may be able to provide. Similarly, Mushahid Hussain Syed has emphasized that China’s role at this stage is crucial, particularly in securing a ceasefire framework.
The Foreign Office noted that Pakistan and China share an “all-weather strategic cooperative partnership,” characterized by close coordination on regional and international matters. Dar’s visit is expected to further strengthen this longstanding relationship.
Despite reportedly suffering a minor shoulder fracture a day earlier, Dar proceeded with the visit, underscoring the importance Islamabad places on its ties with Beijing.
The diplomatic push comes as the conflict—ongoing since late February—continues to disrupt global energy markets. Iran’s effective blockade of oil and gas routes through the Strait of Hormuz has triggered widespread economic concerns worldwide.
Meanwhile, US President Donald Trump has signaled a willingness to halt military operations against Iran, even as challenges remain in reopening key shipping routes in the region.
