ISLAMABAD: Pakistan’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar on Saturday discussed a China-Pakistan five-point proposal to end the Iran war with Bahrain’s Foreign Minister Abdullatif bin Rashid Al Zayani, said an official statement, as Islamabad steps up diplomatic engagement over the ongoing regional crisis.
The proposal, jointly put forward by Beijing and Islamabad earlier this month, calls for an immediate ceasefire, dialogue between the parties, protection of civilians and critical infrastructure, safeguarding maritime routes and adherence to the principles of the UN Charter.
“DPM/FM underscored the urgent need for de-escalation and emphasized the importance of dialogue and diplomacy,” Pakistan’s Foreign Office said.
“He highlighted the Pakistan-China five-point initiative aimed at promoting peace and stability in the Middle East and the Gulf region,” it added.
The call comes amid heightened tensions following joint US and Israeli strikes on Iranian targets on Feb. 28, which triggered retaliatory attacks by Tehran and raised fears of a broader regional conflict, with Gulf countries bearing the brunt of the fallout, including security risks and disruptions to energy markets.
Pakistan has condemned both the strikes on Iran and Tehran’s subsequent attacks on neighboring states, urging restraint as it engages regional and global partners to defuse tensions.
Dar also spoke with Saudi Foreign Minister Faisal bin Farhan Al Saud a day earlier as part of Islamabad’s broader diplomatic outreach on the crisis.
During the call on Saturday, Al Zayani appreciated Pakistan’s efforts toward dialogue and diplomacy aimed at achieving peace and stability in the region, the statement said.
“Both sides also exchanged views on multilateral efforts, including at the UNSC, and agreed to remain in close contact,” it added.
Pakistan is currently a non-permanent member of the United Nations Security Council, beginning its tenure in Jan. 2025 for two years.
The two officials also agreed to remain in close contact as diplomatic efforts to end the war in Iran continue.
