US-Iran Negotiations on 11th; AFP: China Could Be Key Guarantor

AFP reported that Pakistan's last-minute facilitation of a temporary ceasefire between the US and Iran has been widely praised internationally and came as somewhat of a surprise.

A high-ranking Pakistani official familiar with the negotiation details stated: "On the night of the ceasefire, hope was once lost, but China intervened and persuaded Iran to agree to an initial ceasefire... Although our efforts were the main reason, it was still difficult to make progress, and the goal was finally achieved after Beijing persuaded Iran."

Since Israel and the United States launched attacks on February 28, the war has claimed thousands of lives and severely impacted the global economy. The upcoming US-Iran negotiations offer a glimmer of hope for ending the conflict.

Another diplomatic source, unauthorized to speak and requesting anonymity, pointed out: "Pakistan has formed a team of experts to assist both sides in negotiating shipping, nuclear energy, and other related matters."

This source, along with several experts and former officials, told AFP that as Pakistan prepares for negotiations, attention is focused on China's role.

The source said: "China was asked to serve as a guarantor, and Iran wants a guarantor."

Russia, the main alternative, is deeply embroiled in the Russia-Ukraine war, and Western countries, especially the European Union (EU), would not accept Russia, meaning China is the "best candidate."

China has close ties with Pakistan and Iran. For years, under severe US-led sanctions, China has been Iran's largest trading partner; Pakistan is also an important partner country in China's "Belt and Road" initiative, with China investing billions of dollars in local infrastructure projects, and the two governments call each other "iron brothers."

Mushahid Hussain Sayed, a former Pakistani senator and former chairman of the Senate Defense and Foreign Affairs Committee, stated: "As close partners and neighbors, Pakistan and China have been closely coordinating from day one to end hostilities... Given Iran's distrust of the Trump-Netanyahu duo, China, as the ultimate guarantor, will be a key force in finalizing any final peace agreement."

However, China has been relatively low-key in promoting peace, only reiterating that it has been mediating and encouraging all parties to end hostilities.

Analysts and officials say it remains unknown whether China will publicly serve as a formal guarantor in the future. (Compiler: Chang Ming-hsuan) 1150410