PM Shehbaz highlights Pakistan’s de-escalation role amid Mideast tensions in meeting with Chinese envoy

ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Thursday said Pakistan is playing a positive role to reduce tensions and promote peace in the region, as efforts continue to end the ongoing conflict involving the US, Israel, and Iran.

He shared these views during a meeting with Jiang Zaidong at the Prime Minister’s House. The ambassador visited along with a delegation, according to an official statement.

Reports in recent days suggest that Pakistan is trying to act as a mediator to help stop the war through quiet diplomatic contacts. Officials and analysts say Pakistan is concerned that a long conflict in Iran could also affect its own security and economy. The country has already faced fuel supply problems due to the war.

According to international reports, Pakistan’s Army Chief Asim Munir recently spoke on the phone with US President Donald Trump. The White House also confirmed this contact. Senior Pakistani officials are said to be helping pass messages between Iran and key US figures, including Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner.

In the last three days, Pakistan has worked closely with Turkiye and Egypt to reduce tensions and avoid further escalation. There are also reports that Islamabad could host an important meeting between the US and Iran soon. US Vice President JD Vance may attend if the plan goes ahead.

Prime Minister Shehbaz has already said Pakistan is ready to host peace talks as diplomatic efforts increase.

During the meeting, the prime minister also congratulated Chinese leaders, including President Xi Jinping, Premier Li Qiang, and Foreign Minister Wang Yi, on the successful “Two Sessions” and thanked them for their Pakistan Day wishes.

Islamabad: 26 March 2026.

Chinese Ambassador calls on the Prime Minister.

H.E. Jiang Zaidong, Ambassador of the People’s Republic of China, called on Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif at the Prime Minister’s House today. Deputy Prime Minister/Foreign Minister Senator… pic.twitter.com/fsLOzcx1MH

— Prime Minister’s Office (@PakPMO) March 26, 2026

He appreciated China’s continued economic support and said Pakistan is committed to moving forward with the second phase of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor, focusing on agriculture, industry, and infrastructure.

Ambassador Jiang praised Pakistan’s economic stability and reforms and assured continued Chinese support, especially in trade and investment.

Both countries expressed satisfaction over their strong relationship and looked forward to celebrating 75 years of diplomatic ties. The prime minister also stressed the importance of close cooperation and reaffirmed the strong partnership between Pakistan and China.