Xi Jinping Meets Pakistani PM; Both Discuss Mediation in US-Iran Conflict

Central News Agency, Taipei, May 25. According to Xinhua, Chinese President Xi Jinping met with Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif in Beijing today, with both sides discussing the issue of mediation in the US-Iran conflict. Xi stated that China appreciates Pakistan's proactive role in mediating to restore peace in the Middle East, while Sharif expressed gratitude for China's support in mediating US-Iran negotiations. Sharif arrived in Hangzhou on the 23rd for a four-day official visit to China. Xi met with him at the Great Hall of the People this afternoon. Given Pakistan's active mediation between the US and Iran, and the recent mention of the Iran issue during the 'Xi-Biden' meeting in Beijing, this meeting has drawn significant international attention. Regarding the US-Iran conflict, Xi said that China and Pakistan should jointly safeguard regional peace and stability, and China appreciates Pakistan's role in mediating for peace in the Middle East. Xi further stated that both sides should maintain close communication, oppose unilateralism and Cold War mentality, and promote 'equal and orderly world multipolarity' and 'inclusive economic globalization.' Sharif expressed gratitude for China's support, noting that the four-point proposal on the Middle East situation previously put forward by Xi is a 'guiding plan for achieving peace,' and Pakistan is willing to work closely with China to contribute to world peace. Xi emphasized that since the establishment of diplomatic ties 75 years ago, the two countries have forged an unbreakable traditional friendship. Regardless of changes in the international situation, China always prioritizes its relationship with Pakistan in its neighborhood diplomacy. Xi reaffirmed China's support for Pakistan's sovereignty and territorial integrity, while Sharif expressed a desire to learn from China's 'governance experience' and deepen 'Belt and Road' cooperation.