Beijing: Chinese President Xi Jinping has praised Pakistan’s constructive role in promoting peace and stability in the Middle East during an important meeting with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif in Beijing. The high-level talks highlighted the strength of Pakistan-China relations and reaffirmed both countries’ commitment to regional peace, economic cooperation, and strategic partnership.
According to details released after the meeting, President Xi Jinping said China highly values its relationship with Pakistan and considers Islamabad a priority in Beijing’s neighborhood diplomacy. He emphasized that the friendship between the two countries has evolved into an “unbreakable traditional friendship” that continues to grow stronger despite changing global circumstances.
During the meeting, President Xi specifically acknowledged Pakistan’s diplomatic efforts aimed at reducing tensions in the Middle East. He appreciated Pakistan’s constructive and balanced role in encouraging dialogue, peaceful negotiations, and regional stability at a time when several Middle Eastern countries are facing political uncertainty and security challenges.
“China appreciates Pakistan’s constructive role in promoting peace in the Middle East,” President Xi said while addressing Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and the accompanying Pakistani delegation.
The Chinese president also welcomed Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir to China and noted that he was aware of the Pakistani army chief’s recent visit to Iran. Xi Jinping described Pakistan’s efforts for peace, mediation, and positive engagement as commendable, signaling Beijing’s support for Islamabad’s diplomatic initiatives in the region.
The meeting between the two leaders comes at a crucial time when geopolitical tensions in different parts of the world, including the Middle East and South Asia, continue to affect international relations and economic stability. Analysts believe China’s public praise for Pakistan reflects the growing strategic trust between the two longtime allies.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif thanked the Chinese leadership for its continued support to Pakistan in areas including economic development, infrastructure, trade, technology, and defense cooperation. He reiterated Pakistan’s commitment to further strengthening bilateral ties under the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), which remains a flagship project of China’s Belt and Road Initiative.
The Pakistani premier said that the friendship between Islamabad and Beijing has always stood the test of time and remains deeply rooted in mutual trust, respect, and shared strategic interests. He added that Pakistan considers China its most reliable development partner and strategic ally.
Sources familiar with the discussions said both sides exchanged views on regional and international developments, including the situation in the Middle East, Afghanistan, economic cooperation, and global security challenges. The leaders also agreed to continue close coordination on international forums and maintain communication on matters of mutual concern.
China and Pakistan have long enjoyed strong diplomatic, economic, and military relations. Over the decades, the partnership has expanded beyond traditional cooperation into trade, energy, technology, agriculture, and people-to-people exchanges. Beijing has repeatedly expressed support for Pakistan’s sovereignty, economic stability, and development agenda.
Observers note that President Xi’s remarks regarding Pakistan’s peace efforts in the Middle East may further enhance Islamabad’s diplomatic standing internationally. Pakistan has recently attempted to position itself as a bridge-builder in regional conflicts by advocating dialogue and peaceful solutions rather than confrontation.
The Chinese president’s comments regarding Field Marshal Asim Munir’s diplomatic outreach also indicate Beijing’s recognition of Pakistan’s broader regional engagement. Experts say China views regional stability as essential for economic growth and connectivity projects linked to the Belt and Road Initiative.
The meeting concluded with both leaders reaffirming their commitment to deepening the “all-weather strategic cooperative partnership” between Pakistan and China. They pledged to continue working together for regional peace, economic prosperity, and mutual development.
