China and Pakistan adopted a joint diplomatic stance in response to the recent tensions between the US and Iran in the Middle East. The two countries' foreign ministers, Wang Yi and Ishaq Dar, issued an urgent call to prevent escalating conflicts during their meeting in Shanghai.
A statement from the Chinese Foreign Ministry said the two ministers invited all parties to 'immediately cease hostilities' and return to dialogue. The call aims to preserve stability in the region and prevent a wider conflict.
Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi referred to the preliminary peace agreement signed in June to end the clashes in the Strait of Hormuz. Wang stressed that the agreement was 'hard-won,' saying, 'Peace is within sight. We cannot stumble at the last hurdle, let alone lose what we have gained.'
The two countries' intervention came at a time when the US and Iran carried out mutual attacks on Friday. Iran accused the US of targeting civilian infrastructure such as airports, train stations, and bridges. In response, Iran announced it had launched drone attacks on US military allies and facilities in Kuwait.
This latest escalation has weakened hopes for a ceasefire that emerged after the June agreement. Iran declared last week that the Strait of Hormuz would remain closed 'until US aggression ends.' The US, meanwhile, has resumed its blockade of Iranian ports. These developments are also raising concerns about global energy supply security.
