Xi to host Pakistan premier amid Iran mediation efforts

Chinese President Xi Jinping is expected to hold talks with Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif during his upcoming visit to Beijing, as China publicly supports Pakistan’s mediation efforts related to the ongoing tensions between the United States and Iran. Sharif’s official trip to China is scheduled from May 23 to May 26.

Beijing backs Islamabad diplomacy

China’s Foreign Ministry said Xi and Premier Li Qiang will meet Sharif to discuss bilateral relations, regional security and strategic cooperation. Chinese officials stated that Islamabad has played a “balanced and constructive” role in efforts aimed at preserving dialogue and a ceasefire connected to the US-Iran conflict.

The diplomatic engagement comes at a sensitive moment in the region following recent visits to Beijing by US President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin. Pakistan has also intensified communication with Tehran, with Army Chief Gen. Asim Munir currently holding meetings in the Iranian capital.

Focus on strategic partnership

Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun described China and Pakistan as “all-weather strategic cooperative partners,” emphasizing close coordination on political and economic matters affecting South Asia and the broader region.

Officials from both countries are expected to review progress on the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor, one of the largest infrastructure projects under Beijing’s Belt and Road Initiative. The corridor links China’s Xinjiang region to Pakistan’s Gwadar port through transport, rail and energy investments that are considered strategically important for Asian trade routes, including those connected to Middle East.

75 years of diplomatic ties

Sharif’s visit also coincides with the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations between China and Pakistan. Events commemorating the partnership are planned during the trip, including meetings in Zhejiang province.

On Thursday, Xi and Pakistani President Asif Ali Zardari exchanged congratulatory messages highlighting the long-standing relationship between the two countries. Chinese officials said both sides aim to expand cooperation in trade, infrastructure, energy and regional stability.

Bilateral trade between China and Pakistan reached more than $23 billion in 2024, underlining the growing economic dimension of the partnership as Beijing strengthens its influence across Asia.