Beijing: Pakistan and China have unveiled a comprehensive five-point initiative aimed at restoring peace and stability in the Gulf and Middle East regions. This initiative was formulated during a meeting between Pakistan's Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar and Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi in Beijing.
According to Radio Pakistan, both nations have called for an immediate cessation of hostilities and emphasized the necessity of maximum efforts to prevent the conflict from escalating further. Humanitarian assistance was identified as a priority, with both parties insisting that aid must reach all war-affected areas without hindrance.
The initiative underscores the importance of safeguarding the sovereignty, territorial integrity, national independence, and security of Iran and the Gulf states. Dialogue and diplomacy were reaffirmed as the sole viable options for conflict resolution. China and Pakistan are backing the relevant parties to commence negotiations, with an emphasis on peaceful dispute resolution and the avoidance of threats or force during peace talks.
The two countries appealed to all conflict parties to cease attacks on civilians and nonmilitary targets, urging adherence to International Humanitarian Law. The protection of crucial infrastructure, including energy, desalination, power facilities, and peaceful nuclear infrastructures like nuclear power plants, was highlighted as essential.
In terms of maritime security, China and Pakistan urged parties to ensure the safety of ships and crew members in the Strait of Hormuz, to facilitate the early and safe passage of civilian and commercial vessels, and to restore normalcy in the shipping lanes at the earliest opportunity.
Additionally, both nations called for a commitment to genuine multilateralism and stressed the importance of strengthening the role of the United Nations. They advocated for an agreement aimed at establishing a comprehensive peace framework, achieving lasting peace grounded in the UN Charter's purposes and principles, and adhering to international law.