China, Pakistan discuss Iran–US mediation efforts, regional stability

Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi held a telephone call with Pakistan’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar on May 12, 2026, focusing on Islamabad’s recent mediation efforts between Iran and the United States, according to an official readout.

Dar briefed Wang on Pakistan’s facilitation of talks and expressed appreciation for Beijing’s support of Islamabad’s diplomatic efforts, according to a statement published by China’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

He said Pakistan hoped to strengthen coordination with China to help maintain peace and stability in the region.

Wang reiterated China’s principled position and commended Pakistan’s role in enabling contacts between Washington and Tehran, as well as in extending a temporary ceasefire arrangement.

He encouraged Pakistan to maintain its efforts and intensify mediation aimed at resolving issues around the opening of the Strait of Hormuz and restoring regional peace, describing this as aligned with the broader international consensus.

He added that China would continue to support Pakistan’s mediation role and contribute its own efforts where possible.

Wang also noted that China and Pakistan would soon mark the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations, urging both sides to strengthen high-level exchanges, deepen strategic communication, consolidate what he called an “ironclad friendship”, and expand practical cooperation.

He stressed the importance of safeguarding each other’s core interests and advancing the China–Pakistan all-weather strategic cooperative partnership to a higher level.

He added that, amid what he described as a turbulent global environment, both countries should amplify a shared voice in multilateral forums, including the United Nations, and jointly uphold multilateralism.

Dar said Pakistan was ready to use the 75th anniversary as an opportunity to deepen comprehensive cooperation with China, enhance coordination in multilateral settings, and further develop the all-weather strategic partnership.

By Aghakazim Guliyev