ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Thursday highlighted Pakistan’s role in promoting de-escalation in the Middle East during a meeting with Chinese Ambassador Jiang Zaidong in Islamabad, as diplomatic efforts intensify to contain the ongoing conflict involving the United States, Israel and Iran.

According to a statement issued by the Prime Minister’s Office, the premier emphasized Pakistan’s commitment to regional stability and dialogue, as reports suggest Islamabad is actively engaged in back-channel diplomacy aimed at reducing tensions and facilitating negotiations.

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The meeting comes at a time when Pakistan is increasingly being viewed as a potential mediator in efforts to end the nearly month-long conflict, which has raised concerns about wider regional fallout.

Pakistan’s diplomatic engagement

Officials and international media reports indicate that Pakistan has been involved in relaying messages between Washington and Tehran in recent days, in coordination with countries including Turkiye and Egypt.

Security analysts have warned that a prolonged conflict could have direct implications for Pakistan, including economic disruptions and regional instability. Fuel supply challenges linked to the Iran conflict have already affected parts of the region.

Reports also suggest that senior Pakistani officials have facilitated communication between US and Iranian counterparts, while high-level contacts, including a recent reported conversation between Chief of Army Staff Field Marshal Asim Munir and US President Donald Trump, underscore ongoing diplomatic engagement.

Possible talks and mediation role

There are indications that Islamabad is being considered as a potential venue for future talks between the United States and Iran. US Vice President JD Vance is expected to attend if such a meeting materialises, according to international reports.

Prime Minister Shehbaz has publicly expressed Pakistan’s willingness to host dialogue aimed at resolving the conflict, as diplomatic momentum builds amid concerns from regional stakeholders.

Pakistan-China engagement

During the meeting, the prime minister also congratulated Chinese leadership, including President Xi Jinping, Premier Li Qiang and Foreign Minister Wang Yi, on the successful conclusion of China’s “Two Sessions,” and thanked them for their Pakistan Day greetings.

He reiterated Pakistan’s commitment to advancing the second phase of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC 2.0), with a focus on agriculture, industrial cooperation and infrastructure development.

Ambassador Jiang Zaidong commended Pakistan’s economic resilience and reform efforts, reaffirming China’s continued support in trade and investment.

Both sides expressed satisfaction over ongoing cooperation and agreed to maintain close coordination, particularly as the two countries prepare to mark 75 years of diplomatic relations.