PM Shehbaz Thanks China for Supporting Peace Efforts, Says Region Moving Towards Stability

BEIJING: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif appreciated the support of Chinese leadership in promoting regional peace and efforts aimed at supporting the ceasefire between the United States and Iran.

During a meeting with Chinese Premier Li Qiang at the Great Hall of the People, the prime minister said that significant progress had been achieved and developments were moving in the right direction for the restoration of peace in the region.

“We hope and pray that peace will be restored. A lot of ground has already been covered and things are moving in the right direction,” the prime minister said in his opening remarks during his four-day official visit to China.

Prime Minister Shehbaz thanked President Xi Jinping and the Chinese leadership for supporting Pakistan’s efforts to promote peace and achieve diplomatic progress. He said Pakistan supports President Xi’s four-point proposal and also referred to the five-point support framework announced after Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar held discussions with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi.

The prime minister said the world is passing through a critical period due to tensions in the Gulf region and added that Pakistan played a sincere diplomatic role in efforts related to communication between the United States and Iran.

Referring to the participation of Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, who was also present during the meeting, Shehbaz Sharif said he played an important role through diplomatic engagement with regional stakeholders alongside Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar.

The prime minister stated that regional instability had affected economies globally, particularly countries such as Pakistan that depend on imported oil and energy supplies.

He also expressed condolences over the recent gas explosion at a coal mine in Shanxi and conveyed solidarity with affected families.

Highlighting bilateral ties, Shehbaz Sharif said Pakistan and China are celebrating 75 years of diplomatic relations built on a strong foundation established by the leadership of both countries.

In his remarks, Premier Li Qiang said Pakistan had maintained close coordination and communication and contributed positively to regional peace.

Li said President Xi Jinping would provide strategic guidance during his meeting with Prime Minister Shehbaz later in the day and reiterated China’s commitment to expanding practical cooperation and strengthening bilateral relations.